Covid-19 vaccines safe; no evidence linking shots to sudden deaths: ICMR, NCDC studies

NEW DELHI: Studies conducted by the Indian council of medical research (ICMR) and the national centre for disease control (NCDC) have found no direct connection between covid-19 vaccination and sudden unexplained deaths in the country.

According to a press release from the Union ministry of health and family Welfare, various national agencies investigated the matter and concluded that the covid-19 vaccines used in India are safe and effective.

Serious side effects remain extremely rare, and sudden cardiac deaths can result from factors such as genetics, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, and post-covid complications.

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To better understand the causes of sudden deaths, particularly among young adults aged 18 to 45, ICMR and NCDC undertook two studies using different research methods.

The first, a multicentric matched case-control study titled, “Factors associated with unexplained sudden deaths among adults aged 18-45 years in India, " was conducted by ICMR's National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE).

It took place between May and August 2023 across 47 tertiary hospitals in 19 states and union territories. It examined individuals who appeared healthy but died suddenly between October 2021 and March 2023. The findings confirmed that covid-19 vaccination does not increase the risk of such deaths.

The second study,"Establishing the cause in sudden unexplained deaths in young," is being carried out by AIIMS, New Delhi, in collaboration with and funded by ICMR. This prospective study aims to identify common causes of sudden deaths in young adults.

Early data shows that heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) remain the leading cause. Genetic mutations have also been identified as a possible factor in many cases. No significant change has been observed in the pattern of causes compared to previous years. Final results will be shared upon completion of the study.

Together, the two studies provide a clearer understanding of sudden deaths in young adults and confirm that covid-19 vaccination does not raise the risk. Instead, underlying health issues, genetic predisposition, and risky lifestyle choices are contributing factors.

Scientific experts have warned against linking covid-19 vaccines to sudden deaths, calling such claims misleading and unsupported by evidence. They stressed that misinformation could lead to vaccine hesitancy and harm public health efforts.

The press release added that the government of India remains committed to evidence-based public health research to safeguard citizens' well-being.