AstraZeneca's COVID-19 Vaccine Covishield: Potential Risks and Side Effects

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of millions of people worldwide. In response to the pandemic, several pharmaceutical companies have developed vaccines to combat the virus. One such vaccine is Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford. However, recent reports suggest that the vaccine may have potential risks and side effects. In this article, we will discuss the potential risks and side effects of Covishield and the legal proceedings surrounding it.

What is Covishield?

Covishield is a COVID-19 vaccine developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford. The vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India and has been approved for use in several countries, including India. The vaccine is administered in two doses, given 4-12 weeks apart.

Potential Risks and Side Effects:

Recently, AstraZeneca acknowledged that Covishield could cause rare side effects, including blood clots and brain strokes. The company made this admission during a legal proceeding in the UK, where several lawsuits were filed against AstraZeneca for the vaccine's potential risks and side effects. The condition is known as Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), which is a rare but serious condition that can lead to blood clots and brain strokes.

The legal proceedings surrounding Covishield:

Several lawsuits were filed against AstraZeneca in the UK, alleging that the vaccine caused serious side effects, including blood clots and brain strokes. In response to these lawsuits, AstraZeneca submitted a legal document to the UK High Court in February, acknowledging that the vaccine could cause TTS. However, the company maintained that the vaccine's benefits outweigh the risks and that it is still safe for use.

The legal proceedings are ongoing, and it remains to be seen how they will affect the use of Covishield in the future. However, it is important to note that the risks associated with the vaccine are rare, and the benefits of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 far outweigh the risks.

The Significance of Covishield in India:

Covishield has been a crucial component of India's vaccination drive against COVID-19. The vaccine is affordable and easy to store, making it an ideal choice for developing countries like India. The Serum Institute of India, which manufactures Covishield, has partnered with AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford to produce the vaccine for India and other low and middle-income countries. As of 2022, over 1.7 billion doses of Covishield have been ordered by the Indian government, making it the largest vaccination program in the world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while Covishield has been acknowledged by AstraZeneca to have potential risks and side effects, the benefits of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 far outweigh the risks. The legal proceedings surrounding the vaccine are ongoing, and it remains to be seen how they will affect its use in the future. However, Covishield has been a crucial component of India's vaccination drive against COVID-19, and its affordable and easy-to-store nature makes it an ideal choice for developing countries. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals regarding any concerns about the vaccine and to continue following COVID-19 safety guidelines to protect oneself and others.