AstraZeneca says it will withdraw Covid-19 vaccine globally
The United Kingdom-based pharmaceutical company, AstraZeneca, on Tuesday said that it has initiated a worldwide recall of Covid-19 vaccine. The vaccine, developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, was produced by the Serum Institute of India as Covishield. The decision follows the company's admission that the vaccine could potentially trigger a rare side effect known as Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS).
'Surplus vaccines' developed since pandemic: AstraZeneca
According to the company, the recall was due to a "surplus available updated vaccines" developed since the pandemic. The vaccine was superseded by updated vaccines that tackle new variants, AstraZeneca added. The company voluntarily withdrew its "marketing authorization" in the European Union, adding that the vaccine was no longer being produced and could no longer be used. Similar withdrawals will be made across other countries that have been using the vaccine.
AstraZeneca's statement on vaccine withdrawl
In a statement, AstraZeneca said, "Over 6.5 million lives were saved in the first year of use alone and over three billion doses were supplied globally. Our efforts have been recognised...around the world...are widely regarded as being a critical component of ending the...pandemic." "As multiple, variant Covid-19 vaccines have...been developed, there is a surplus of available updated vaccines. We will now work with regulators...partners...to conclude this chapter and significant contribution to the Covid-19 pandemic," the company added.
AstraZeneca faces lawsuit over vaccine side effects
To recall, TTS—which causes blood clots and a low blood platelet count—has been associated with at least 81 deaths in the UK. The pharmaceutical giant is facing a £100 million lawsuit in the UK regarding allegations that its Covid jab led to fatalities and injuries to several people. However, the vaccine manufacturer has refuted any connection between the decision to withdraw Covishield and the ongoing court case.
AstraZeneca's earlier statement amid health concerns
Earlier, amid reports of rare side effects from the AstraZeneca-Oxford Covid-19 vaccine, the company reaffirmed its dedication to patient safety. It had said that "patient safety is our highest priority, and regulatory authorities have clear and stringent standards to ensure the safe use of all medicines, including vaccines."
