Evaporated Coronavac vaccine causes eye injuries, prompts misinformation

Although the misinformation was shared by a relatively high-profile account, it has not gained much traction in the last week. Consider countering misinformation by emphasizing that the case report did not conclude that the vaccine was unsafe but that health workers should use extra caution when handling vials containing the vaccine and avoid contact with the vaccine if it spills or evaporates. Prebunking messaging may explain that Coronavac has undergone rigorous clinical trials and is considered safe by WHO. It is also important to note that any medication, including a vaccine, can be harmful if it is administered incorrectly or comes in contact with sensitive parts of the body. A drug that is perfectly safe when taken by mouth may cause serious damage if it is inhaled through the nose or comes in contact with the eyes. That doesn’t mean that the drug is unsafe.

Fact-checking sources:

• WHO, CDC