COVID-19: FG investigates side effects of Vaccines

The Federal Government on Thursday said it had commenced investigations to determine the side effects of the Covid-19 vaccine.

The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency has already doused apprehensions about its side effects and safety.

According to the Head Public Relations Unit, NPHCDA, Mohammed Ohitoto, the agency was awaiting the outcome of the investigations.

He said, “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 that has issue.

“Vaccinations in Nigeria started earlier this month and we have not observed any similar adverse reactions. All side effects reported by those who have been administered the vaccine have been mild.

“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.”