FG reacts as fears mount over COVID-19 side effect report

Federal Government has reacted to reports on the side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine on people who have been vaccinated.

There have been fears in Nigeria following the report, especially as the particular vaccine allegedly having side effect on people is said to be AstraZeneca vaccine.

But reacting to that report, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency explained that the batch of the AstraZeneca vaccine with a suspected side effect is ABV5300, which Nigeria did not receive.

The Federal Government’s agency made this clarification in a statement on its Twitter handle on Thursday titled, ‘Press Statement on concerns about the safety of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Vaccine’.

NPHCDA statement read, “We are aware of precautionary concerns that have been raised regarding one specific batch of the AstraZeneca vaccine, namely ABV5300.

“We understand that investigations are being conducted to determine if the batch is in any way linked to an observed side effect.

“While we await the outcome of the investigations, it is important to clearly state that Nigeria did not receive any doses from the batch of vaccines which is at issue.

“We are satisfied that the clinical evidence indicates the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to be safe and effective.

“Our assessment is in line with countries such as Spain and the UK who have indicated that they will continue to administer the vaccine because it remains an important tool to protect against COVID-19.

“The safety of vaccines delivered to Nigeria is paramount to the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19. For this reason, it has enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration among stakeholders and technical entities such as the FMOH, NPHCDA, NAFDAC, WHO and UNICEF, whose cooperation ensures the highest global standards are met for vaccines delivered to Nigeria before they are distributed to Nigerians. Clear, rigorous protocols are being followed to safeguard the health of Nigerians.

“We are continuing to monitor the developments regarding ABV5300 batch and will share further information as it becomes available. “In the meantime, we encourage Nigerians who are among those being prioritized in the current phase to continue their confidence and enthusiasm for our vitally important national vaccine program. Together, we can save lives.”