AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of the Covishield vaccine has recently acknowledged that the Covishield vaccine can potentially cause rare side effects.
One such condition is Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), which involves blood clots and low platelet counts.
The occurrence of TTS is very rare, with an incidence rate as low as "One in 50,000".
What is thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome?
Thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) is a very rare syndrome. It occurs when a person has blood clots (thrombosis) together with a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). It's also referred to as 'vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia' (VITT).
Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot, which can reduce normal blood flow in an affected blood vessel.
How is TTS diagnosed and treated?
TTS requires hospital-based treatment.
TTS is diagnosed using blood tests and scans including CT scans.
Treatment for TTS includes:
- Anticoagulant (anti-clotting) medicines (other than heparin)
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) — infusion of a Blood product containing antibodies
- High-dose prednisone — a type of steroid medicine
Despite its rarity, the company has expressed sympathy for those affected and continues to emphasize the overall safety and efficacy of the vaccine.
It is important to understand that rare side effects of the covishield vaccine may impact individuals with potential underlying health conditions like clotting disorders more as compared to other individuals. The majority of people who were vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine remain unaffected by such side effects.
Here are the top 5 potential common side effects of COVID-19 vaccines as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health sources:
1. Pain at the injection site
2. Fever
3. Fatigue
4. Headache
5. Muscle pain
These side effects are typically mild to moderate and resolve within a few days. They are signs that your body is building protection against the virus.
If you're experiencing symptoms after getting a COVID-19 vaccine, here's what you can do:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep an eye on how you're feeling. Note any symptoms you experience and how severe they are.
- Rest and Hydrate: Drink plenty of fluids and get some rest. Sometimes, mild symptoms can be managed at home with rest and hydration.
- Take Over-the-counter Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with symptoms like pain, fever, and headaches. Follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.
- Contact Your Healthcare Provider: If you're concerned about your symptoms or they worsen, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and advice tailored to your situation.
- Seek Medical Attention if Necessary: If you experience severe symptoms or signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rapid heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Report Your Symptoms: It's important to report any adverse reactions or symptoms you experience after receiving the vaccine. You can report them to your healthcare provider or through the appropriate reporting system in your country. This helps health authorities monitor vaccine safety and make informed decisions.
Check S o u r c e
