“This is a very rare effect but it also makes it very important for doctors and patients to be aware of the signs so that they can spot any concerns and seek specialist help as soon as possible”, says Cooke. "Early intervention by specialists can change the outcome."
"The scientific assessment that PRAC has concluded on today will allow vaccination programs in member states to take decisions on how to roll out this vaccine based on their national situation” (infections, hospitalizations, ICU admissions, vaccine availability), says Cooke.
PRAC concluded there is a "possible link" between clotting disorders and the J&J vaccine, says Sabine Straus. “The product information will be updated to reflect this information and will include a warning, and an update of the side effects"
"The careful review of the cases, and other available evidence, have led the committee to the conclusion that these blood clotting disorders are very rare side effects of the vaccine”, says Straus.
"At this moment, it's not possible to identify clear risk factors for the occurrence of these very rare events, such as gender or age”, says Straus.
Sraus lists symptoms to look out for within 3 weeks after vaccination: shortness of breath chest pain swelling in the leg persistent abdominal pain neurological symptoms, including severe or persistent headaches or blurred vision skin bruising beyond the site of injection
"People experiencing any of these symptoms after vaccination should seek medical assistance”, says Straus. “If treated early, healthcare professionals can help those affected in their recovery and avoid further complications."
Q whether this is the same mechanism as with AZ. “There are quite some similarities between the two vaccines, but there are also differences”, says Straus. Mentions chimp vs. human adenovirus and differences in spike.
“At the moment, we see that the cases have a lot of similarities”, says Straus. "We think that the hypothesis to explain the end of the cascade is probably similar, but it's too early to draw any further conclusions."
Arlett gives a breakdown of cases of blood clots with thrombocytopenia by vaccine: J&J: 8 cases (all US) AZ: 287 cases (142 from European Economic Area) Pfizer: 25 cases Moderna: 5 case
@kakape These data are useless without total number of vaccine administered and breakdown of age intervals/gender. I expected more of EMA, to be honest...