These side effects would be perfectly normal, however, according to Schmit. Out of all the AstraZeneca vaccinations carried out in Luxembourg, 13 people reported side effects similar to those of a flu jab. He also stated that three cases of cardiovascular problems had been reported, including variations in blood pressure.
A number of countries suspended the AstraZeneca jab this week after news emerged from Austria of potential issues with a specific batch (ABV5300). Luxembourg received 4,800 doses from the suspended batch, and had already administered 86% of it. The remaining 690 doses have been isolated and will not be used, Schmit did say.
Other vaccines have side effects, too, according to the doctor. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, which has a very good reputation, is no exception, where some patients have felt headaches, a sore throat, or joint pain.
The European Medicines Agency assured that the risk of blood clots was not higher in vaccinated people and considered that the vaccine could continue to be used. To Schmit, therefore, there is no reason to stop vaccinating with AstraZeneca. The World Health Organization made a similar statement.
Furthermore, according to the Health Directorate, the first deliveries of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are expected by mid-April in Luxembourg. Schmit also announced that vaccinations could be carried out at a GP’s surgery, but that this will only be possible at a later stage once Luxembourg has given priority to all vulnerable individuals.
