ICMR-AIIMS studies find no connection between Covid vaccines and sudden deaths: Health Ministry

Srinagar, July 2: Post the Covid pandemic several cases of heart attack-related death among people, especially the young were reported from across the country, and suggested a link with Covid vaccinations.

The ministry cited extensive studies conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on sudden deaths among adults post-C to make that claim.

“Extensive studies by ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) and AIIMS on sudden deaths among adults post-COVID have conclusively established no linkage between COVID-19 vaccines and sudden deaths. Studies by ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) have affirmed that COVID-19 vaccines in India are safe and effective, with extremely rare instances of serious side effects,” the ministry said in a statement.

The statement clarified that sudden cardiac deaths can occur due to various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, and post-C complications.

The first study, led by ICMR’s National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), investigated unexplained sudden deaths among adults aged 18 to 45 across 47 tertiary hospitals in 19 states and Union Territories between May and August 2023. It focused on seemingly healthy individuals who died suddenly between October 2021 and March 2023. According to the Health Ministry, the study clearly found no link between Covid-19 vaccination and increased risk of sudden death in young adults.

A second study, currently underway by AIIMS New Delhi in collaboration with ICMR, is examining the common causes behind sudden deaths in young adults.

The recent case of Shefali, 42-year-old actor  who collapsed at her home on Friday night. Her husband, television actor Parag Tyagi, immediately rushed her to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital in Andheri, where doctors declared her brought dead. Initial reports suggest a possible cardiac arrest. Her body was later moved to R.N. Cooper Hospital in Juhu for a post-mortem examination.

A rise in sudden cardiac deaths among young individuals since 2020 has sparked public concern, with many speculating a link to Covid-19 vaccines. Recent studies aim to address these fears and provide clarity based on scientific evidence.