No ‘Adverse Reactions’ From COVID-19 Vaccination – NPHCDA

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has
clarified that the country is yet to observe any ‘similar adverse
reactions.’

The agency in a statement released via its official handle
@NphcdaNG, explained that all side effects reported by those who
have been administered by the vaccine have been ‘mild’.

It explained that the agency is 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.

“We are satisfied that the clinical evidence indicates the
Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to be safe and effective.

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 which is at issue.

“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.

“The safety of vaccines delivered to Nigeria is paramount to the
Presidential Task Force on COVID-19. For this reason, it has
enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration among stakeholders and
technical entities such as the FMOH, NPHCDA, NAFDAC, WHO and
UNICEF,” the agency added.

The agency encouraged Nigerians who are among those being
prioritized in the current phase to continue their confidence and
enthusiasm for the national vaccine program.

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has
clarified that the country is yet to observe any ‘similar adverse
reactions.’

The agency in a statement released via its official handle
@NphcdaNG, explained that all side effects reported by those who
have been administered by the vaccine have been ‘mild’.

It explained that the agency is 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.

“We are satisfied that the clinical evidence indicates the
Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to be safe and effective.

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 which is at issue.

“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.

“The safety of vaccines delivered to Nigeria is paramount to the
Presidential Task Force on COVID-19. For this reason, it has
enhanced multi-sectoral collaboration among stakeholders and
technical entities such as the FMOH, NPHCDA, NAFDAC, WHO and
UNICEF,” the agency added.

The agency encouraged Nigerians who are among those being
prioritized in the current phase to continue their confidence and
enthusiasm for the national vaccine program.