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FDA Memo: COVID Vaccine Linked to 10 Child Deaths
2 Dec
Summary
- An internal FDA memo suggests COVID vaccines may be linked to at least 10 child deaths.
- The memo raises concerns about myocarditis, a heart inflammation linked to vaccination.
- Critics argue the memo lacks crucial context and fuels vaccine mistrust.
A confidential internal memo from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicates a potential link between COVID-19 vaccines and the deaths of at least 10 children. This internal document, obtained by The New York Times, has not been publicly released or externally reviewed. It cites myocarditis, a rare heart inflammation observed post-vaccination, as the apparent cause of these fatalities.
This memo signifies a notable shift in the FDA's public stance on vaccine safety. Dr. Vinay Prasad, head of the FDA's vaccine division, authored the note, stating the agency will acknowledge vaccine-related child deaths for the first time. He also proposed new reviews and stricter oversight for vaccines, though the White House has not been briefed. Researchers emphasize that vaccine-linked myocarditis is typically rare and resolves quickly, especially compared to the virus-induced condition.
Critics, including Dr. Paul Offit, described the memo as "science by press release" due to its lack of detail and perceived political tone. Concerns have been raised that the memo's release, just before a CDC vaccine meeting, was intentionally timed. Experts warn that stricter regulations could increase vaccine development costs and further erode public trust at a time when vaccine-preventable diseases are resurging globally.
