AstraZeneca Vaccine Deemed ‘Safe and Effective’ by EMA

The Pharmacovigilance and Risk Assessment Committee concluded that AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, with benefits outweighing risks. While no overall increase in blood clot risk was found, rare clotting disorders prompted further review. The committee recommends raising awareness of these risks and monitoring side effects. Over 7 million in the EU and 11 million in the UK have been vaccinated. Continuous monitoring is essential to update safety information. The vaccine shows at least 60% efficacy in trials, with real-world effectiveness potentially higher.

What was the committee's conclusion regarding the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine?

• It causes a significant increase in blood clots.

• It is safe and effective, with benefits outweighing risks.

• It is unsafe and ineffective.

• It should be discontinued immediately.

What did the committee recommend regarding the rare clotting disorders?

• To conduct no further investigations.

• To stop the use of the vaccine immediately.

• To raise awareness and include them in product information.

• To ignore them as they are insignificant.

How many people have been vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine in the EU and UK combined?

• 5 million

• 10 million

• 18 million

• 25 million

What is the minimum efficacy of the AstraZeneca vaccine as demonstrated in clinical trials?

• 80%

• 50%

• 30%

• 60%

What is the committee's stance on monitoring side effects?

• It should be done only if severe cases arise.

• It is unnecessary.

• It is crucial for evaluating and updating information.

• It should be done occasionally.