A number of European countries have suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, with the Netherlands becoming the latest to do so. Denmark and Norway reported potential side effects of the vaccine, while Ireland recommended against its use following reports of blood clotting in other countries.
AstraZeneca, however, denied allegations made against its vaccine, stating that no such evidence pointed towards blood clots.
“A careful review of all available safety data of more than 17 million people vaccinated in the European Union and UK with the COVID-19 vaccine of AstraZeneca has shown no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis or thrombocytopenia, in any defined age group, gender, batch or in any particular country,” it said.
The Dutch government has stated that the suspension will last till March 29, 2021.
“We can’t allow any doubts about the vaccine,” said Dutch Health Minister Hugo de Jonge in an official statement.
“We have to make sure everything is right, so it is wise to pause for now.”
