UK-based pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca has reportedly acknowledged in court for the first time that its Covid vaccine can lead to a rare blood clotting condition. This development has emerged in the context of a class action lawsuit filed by families alleging harm caused by the vaccine.
The admission comes amid legal proceedings prompted by claims of serious health complications, including death, attributed to the vaccine. Lawyers representing numerous claimants argue that some cases could result in compensation payouts totaling up to 20 million pounds.
Formerly referred to as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), this extremely rare complication has been recognised as a possible side effect of the vaccine.
The acknowledgement by AstraZeneca sets the stage for individual settlements for those impacted by this adverse reaction. The significance lies in the fact that this is the first instance where the company has admitted in court that its vaccine can result in this condition.
In a legal filing submitted to a UK court in February, the Cambridge-headquartered company acknowledged that its vaccine "can, in very rare cases, cause TTS," which stands for thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome. This condition entails the development of blood clots alongside a reduced platelet count, which is essential for blood clotting.
This marks a significant departure from its previous statements, indicating a notable shift in its legal position. The ongoing legal proceedings raise the possibility of compensation payments falling on UK taxpayers, as AstraZeneca had previously secured an indemnity agreement with the government during the height of the Covid crisis. This agreement aimed to accelerate vaccine production while shielding the pharmaceutical company from legal responsibility.
The recent development comes on the heels of AstraZeneca's financial success, with revenues surpassing 10 billion pounds in the first quarter of 2024. AstraZeneca has expressed sympathy for those impacted by adverse reactions to its vaccine while reiterating its commitment to patient safety. The company emphasized the rigorous safety standards set by regulatory authorities and reaffirmed the overall safety profile of the vaccine.
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