Pausing of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine rollout used by U.S. anti-vaxxers

Leaders of the anti-vaccine movement and anti-vaccine groups have seized upon the suspension of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine as evidence all COVID-19 vaccines are inherently unsafe. During the week of 3/8 – 3/15, the rollout of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine had been suspended in various European countries over fears of blood clots. Most countries suspended the vaccine out of an abundance of caution while they investigated a handful of cases. AstraZeneca stated that they observed no increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis in clinical trials, and that the number of events is lower among those who have received the vaccine, compared to what would be expected under normal circumstances among the general population. As of 3/19, the European drug regulator has recommended vaccinations resume. Countries are making independent determinations. Researchers are studying what role the vaccine could have played in the events, with some early results (see links), and prevention and treatment options.

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The Public Health Communications Collaborative (PHCC) was formed in 2020 to coordinate and amplify public health messaging on COVID-19 and increase Americans’ confidence in guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local public health officials.

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