Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar, a renowned epidemiologist and former scientist at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has shed light on the minimal risk of experiencing thrombosis thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) after receiving the Covishield vaccine. According to Dr. Gangakhedkar, only around seven to eight individuals out of 10 lakh vaccinated individuals may face this rare side effect.
Emphasizing the safety of the Covishield vaccine, Dr. Gangakhedkar stated that those who have received it face virtually no risk. He explained that while the risk is slightly higher after the first dose, it decreases with subsequent doses and is lowest after the third dose. Dr. Gangakhedkar further highlighted that any potential side effects typically manifest within the initial two to three months after vaccination.
Recent revelations from court documents, as reported by UK media outlets, indicate that AstraZeneca, the pharmaceutical giant behind the Covid vaccine, has acknowledged the rare possibility of blood clot-related side effects. This vaccine, known as AZ Vaxzevria, is also manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII) and distributed under the name Covishield. Notably, Covishield accounts for approximately 90 percent of India’s vaccination efforts.
Dr. Gangakhedkar’s insights provide reassurance amid ongoing concerns, underscoring the importance of understanding and communicating the actual risks associated with Covid vaccinations.
