At this time and based on current evidence, the National Immunication Advisory Council (NACI) recommends that the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine may be offered to individuals 30 years of age and older without contraindications, if the individual does not wish to wait for an mRNA vaccine and the benefits outweigh the risk.
It’s important to address concerns regarding having the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine administered, following reports of unexpected blood clots in Europe that took place as a result of taking this vaccine.
This very rare adverse event is being referred to as Vaccine-Induced Prothrombotic Immune Thrombocytopenia (VIPIT). VIPIT occurs when the antibodies that are developed in your body from the AZ vaccine “activate” platelets in your blood (the cells that are used to clot blood/make scabs) which will form clots and then result in thrombocytopenia (low platelet levels). Exactly how the AZ vaccine contributes to this event is what is currently being investigated. The rate at which this happens is very low, exact rates are still being determined but it is currently estimated to be somewhere between 1 in 100,000 (100K) to 1 in 1,000,000 (1M).
Thrombosis Canada states that there is no increased risk of developing a blood clot from any of the Health Canada approved vaccines should you have a history of blood clots. In fact, they suggest the COVID-19 disease itself can often causes blood clots and that the vaccine will provide you with protection against developing another blood clot. Read more FAQs on COVID-19 vaccines and blood clots.
As with all medications and vaccines, there are very rare and serious side effects that can happen. This does not mean the vaccine isn’t safe. Health Canada only approves vaccines that have gone through rigorous trials and are determined to be both safe and effective. They are continuously monitored to identify any side effects that require further investigation.
Even though the risk of blood clots is extremely low, it is important to be aware of any possible side effects in order to give informed consent for receiving the vaccine. TBDHU contends that the risk of blood clots from AZ significantly outweigh the risks of COVID-19 in our communities. Read the full National Immunization Advisory Council (NACI) statement.
For more information on the AstraZeneca vaccine, including ingredients, how it works, possible side effects and vaccine safety, visit the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine: What you should know page.
Pharmacies Administering AstraZeneca
The following pharmacies in the TBDHU region are able to administer the AstraZeneca vaccine to those adults 40 years and older:
For more information, visit the Pharmacy Vaccine Locations website.
