After several countries imposed a temporary suspension on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine.</a>

WHO has recommended countries to continue using AstraZeneca's vaccine 'at this time', till the experts conclude the ongoing assessment of reports that claimed blood clotting to be a side-effect of the vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-chief-proposes-digital-green-certificates-and-stricter-curbs-on-vaccine-exports-371168" hreflang="en">EU Chief proposes 'digital green certificates' and stricter curbs on vaccine exports</a>

"The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data," the agency said in a statement. "At this time, WHO considers that the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh its risks and recommends that vaccinations continue."

Experts at WHO have assured that the results of the review will be communicated as soon as the assessment of the reports is finished.

The statement has come after several countries temporarily suspended the use of AstraZeneca after a few cases of formation of blood clots were reported around the world.

However, the European Union's medicines regulator has stressed that, as of now, there is no evidence that points towards a link between the vaccine shot and formation of blood clots — termed as thromboembolic events.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-to-begin-coronavirus-vaccine-trials-on-children-in-us-and-canada-371034" hreflang="en">Moderna to begin coronavirus vaccine trials on children in US and Canada</a>

The WHO backed this by explaining that it is a routine procedure for experts and countries to flag any potential side-effects of a vaccine, but also stressed that "this does not necessarily mean that the events are linked to vaccination itself, but it is good practice to investigate them. It also shows that the surveillance system works and that effective controls are in place".

"Vaccination against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a> will not reduce illness or deaths from other causes," WHO assured. "Thromboembolic events are known to occur frequently. Venous thromboembolism is the third most common cardiovascular disease globally."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, WHO experts have also recommended Johnson &amp; Johnson's coronavirus vaccine for use against the different variants of coronavirus.

"We have a vaccine that shows to be safe and it shows to have the necessary efficacy to be recommended by us for use in people above the age of 18, without an upper age limit," SAGE chair Alejandro Cravioto said. "In the countries where there is a high spread of the variants and in countries where we now have information about the use of this vaccine to control SARS-CoV-2 caused by these variants, we recommend that you use it."

After several countries imposed a temporary suspension on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of this vaccine.

After several countries imposed a temporary suspension on AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of this vaccine. WHO has recommended countries to continue using AstraZeneca's vaccine 'at this time', till the experts conclude the ongoing assessment of reports that claimed blood clotting to be a side-effect of the vaccine. Also read | EU Chief proposes 'digital green certificates' and stricter curbs on vaccine exports "The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data," the agency said in a statement. "At this time, WHO considers that the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh its risks and recommends that vaccinations continue." Experts at WHO have assured that the results of the review will be communicated as soon as the assessment of the reports is finished. The statement has come after several countries temporarily suspended the use of AstraZeneca after a few cases of formation of blood clots were reported around the world. However, the European Union's medicines regulator has stressed that, as of now, there is no evidence that points towards a link between the vaccine shot and formation of blood clots — termed as thromboembolic events. Also read | Moderna to begin coronavirus vaccine trials on children in US and Canada The WHO backed this by explaining that it is a routine procedure for experts and countries to flag any potential side-effects of a vaccine, but also stressed that "this does not necessarily mean that the events are linked to vaccination itself, but it is good practice to investigate them. It also shows that the surveillance system works and that effective controls are in place". "Vaccination against Covid-19 will not reduce illness or deaths from other causes," WHO assured. "Thromboembolic events are known to occur frequently. Venous thromboembolism is the third most common cardiovascular disease globally." Meanwhile, WHO experts have also recommended Johnson & Johnson's coronavirus vaccine for use against the different variants of coronavirus. "We have a vaccine that shows to be safe and it shows to have the necessary efficacy to be recommended by us for use in people above the age of 18, without an upper age limit," SAGE chair Alejandro Cravioto said. "In the countries where there is a high spread of the variants and in countries where we now have information about the use of this vaccine to control SARS-CoV-2 caused by these variants, we recommend that you use it."

WHO backs use of AstraZeneca vaccine; approves J&J for COVID variants

France, Germany and Italy have joined a growing list of nations that have suspended the use of AstraZeneca's COVID jabs. Are European powers politicising vaccines, or is there solid science behind the move? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: France, Germany suspend AstraZeneca jabs

Within a space of few days rollout of Oxford's AstraZeneca vaccine has come to a halt in most major European Nations following unconfirmed concerns that the vaccines cab potentially cause blood clots.

AstraZeneca Update: Major EU Nations halt use of AstraZeneca shot

Sweden is the latest European country in the row to suspend the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. The government of Venezuela has also denied the approval of the vaccine due to the piling reports of complications.

AstraZeneca Vaccine Update: Venezuela denies to authorize the jab

The European Medicines Agency held a news conference to discuss its investigation into incidents of bleeding, blood clots and low platelet counts in people who had been given AstraZeneca PLC’s Coronavirus vaccine.

European medicines agency hold briefing over AstraZeneca vaccine

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha became the first person to be inoculated with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in the Southeast Asian country on Tuesday after the rollout had been temporarily put on hold over safety concerns. 
 
Prayuth and other cabinet members had been initially due to get their vaccine shots on Friday, before Thailand suspended use of the AstraZeneca vaccine after reports it could cause blood clots prompted a number of European countries to hit pause. 
 
Thailand`s health minister said on Monday the rollout would resume after many countries had said there were no blood clot issues with the vaccine.

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha became the first person to be inoculated with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in the Southeast Asian country on Tuesday after the rollout had been temporarily put on hold over safety concerns.

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha became the first person to be inoculated with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in the Southeast Asian country on Tuesday after the rollout had been temporarily put on hold over safety concerns. Prayuth and other cabinet members had been initially due to get their vaccine shots on Friday, before Thailand suspended use of the AstraZeneca vaccine after reports it could cause blood clots prompted a number of European countries to hit pause. Thailand`s health minister said on Monday the rollout would resume after many countries had said there were no blood clot issues with the vaccine.

Thai PM gets first shot of AstraZeneca vaccine after safety scare

After a number of European countries announced they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine, UK PM Boris Johnson has said the government is confident in the safety of the vaccine.

'We have one of the toughest and most experienced regulators in the world,' Johnson said. 'They see no reason at all to discontinue the vaccination program.'

The British leader on Tuesday echoed assurances that the jab was not harmful.

"That vaccine is safe and works extremely well," Johnson wrote in The Times newspaper. 
 
Gravitas | AstraZeneca Suspension: Facts vs Hype

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"It is being made in multiple places from India to the US, as well as Britain, and it is being used around the world," he added.

Fears have grown in some countries over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine after several cases of blood clots or brain haemorrhages in people after receiving the inoculation, with a small number of deaths reported.

But AstraZeneca and medical experts in Britain have said there is no evidence of clots being caused by the jab or that they are occurring in greater numbers or frequency than in the general population.

The vaccine was developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford in Britain, where more than 11 million doses have been administered, without any major problems reported.

On Monday, Johnson told reporters that Britain's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is "one of the toughest and most experienced regulators in the world".

"They see no reason at all to discontinue the vaccination programme... for either of the vaccines that we're currently using," he said.

"They believe that they are highly effective in driving down not just hospitalisation but also serious disease and mortality.

"We continue to be very confident about the programme and it's great to see it being rolled out at such speed across the UK."

(With inputs from agencies)

After a number of European countries announced they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine, UK PM Boris Johnson has said the government is confident in the safety of the vaccine.

After a number of European countries announced they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine, UK PM Boris Johnson has said the government is confident in the safety of the vaccine. 'We have one of the toughest and most experienced regulators in the world,' Johnson said. 'They see no reason at all to discontinue the vaccination program.' The British leader on Tuesday echoed assurances that the jab was not harmful. "That vaccine is safe and works extremely well," Johnson wrote in The Times newspaper. Gravitas | AstraZeneca Suspension: Facts vs Hype "It is being made in multiple places from India to the US, as well as Britain, and it is being used around the world," he added. Fears have grown in some countries over the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine after several cases of blood clots or brain haemorrhages in people after receiving the inoculation, with a small number of deaths reported. But AstraZeneca and medical experts in Britain have said there is no evidence of clots being caused by the jab or that they are occurring in greater numbers or frequency than in the general population. The vaccine was developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford in Britain, where more than 11 million doses have been administered, without any major problems reported. On Monday, Johnson told reporters that Britain's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is "one of the toughest and most experienced regulators in the world". "They see no reason at all to discontinue the vaccination programme... for either of the vaccines that we're currently using," he said. "They believe that they are highly effective in driving down not just hospitalisation but also serious disease and mortality. "We continue to be very confident about the programme and it's great to see it being rolled out at such speed across the UK." (With inputs from agencies)

AstraZeneca is safe and works extremely well: UK PM defends vaccine over blood clot fears

Does AstraZeneca cause blood clots in everybody or only in those with co-morbidities? How many types of blood clots are being reported? Are they all linked to vaccination? WION's Palki Sharma separates the facts from the hype.

Gravitas | AstraZeneca Suspension: Facts vs Hype

Does the Astrazenca vaccine cause blood clots? At least 16 countries have suspended the shot so far. But the European & British regulators say the vaccine is safe. Who is right? Where does India stand? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Does the AstraZeneca vaccine cause blood clots?

The World Health Organisation and the European drug regulator urge country not to panic as several of them have since halted the use of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

WHO: Countries should continue AstraZeneca rollout

Coronavirus Update: WHO says no link between blood clots & vaccine

AstraZeneca&nbsp;on Sunday claimed that its vaccine has shown no evidence of increased risks of blood clots. The company conducted a review of data among people who received the vaccine to ascertain its safety.

The review took into account&nbsp;17 million people in the United Kingdom and the European Union, and comes in the middle of many countries suspending use of its vaccines amid concerns of clotting issues.

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"A careful review of all available safety data of more than 17 million people vaccinated in the European Union and UK with COVID-19 Vaccine&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;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," the company said.

The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine has been suspended in Denmark, Ireland, Norway, Iceland, and the Netherlands over clotting concerns.&nbsp;In addition, Austria had&nbsp;halted the use of a batch of AstraZeneca vaccines last week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/piedmont-region-in-italy-stops-use-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-batch-370445" hreflang="en">Piedmont region in Italy stops use of AstraZeneca vaccine batch</a>

According to the European Medicines Agency, there is no indication that the blood clotting events were caused by the vaccination. The World Health Organization has also reiterated the same position.

AstraZeneca announced that among millions, the company has recorded 15 events of deep vein thrombosis, and 22 events of pulmonary embolism, which is similar to the effects reported across all licenses COVID-19 vaccines.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ireland-suspends-use-of-astrazeneca-coronavirus-vaccine-370416" hreflang="en">Ireland suspends use of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine</a>

The company added that it has undertaken additional testing&nbsp;which is currently underway. AstraZeneca will make its safety report available on the EMA website in the next week.

The vaccine has been greenlit across the European Union, but is yet to receive approval from US regulators.

AstraZeneca on Sunday claimed that its vaccine has shown no evidence of increased risks of blood clots. The company conducted a review of data among people who received the vaccine to ascertain its safety.

AstraZeneca on Sunday claimed that its vaccine has shown no evidence of increased risks of blood clots. The company conducted a review of data among people who received the vaccine to ascertain its safety. The review took into account 17 million people in the United Kingdom and the European Union, and comes in the middle of many countries suspending use of its vaccines amid concerns of clotting issues. "A careful review of all available safety data of more than 17 million people vaccinated in the European Union and UK with COVID-19 Vaccine 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," the company said. The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine has been suspended in Denmark, Ireland, Norway, Iceland, and the Netherlands over clotting concerns. In addition, Austria had halted the use of a batch of AstraZeneca vaccines last week. Also read: Piedmont region in Italy stops use of AstraZeneca vaccine batch According to the European Medicines Agency, there is no indication that the blood clotting events were caused by the vaccination. The World Health Organization has also reiterated the same position. AstraZeneca announced that among millions, the company has recorded 15 events of deep vein thrombosis, and 22 events of pulmonary embolism, which is similar to the effects reported across all licenses COVID-19 vaccines. Also read: Ireland suspends use of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine The company added that it has undertaken additional testing which is currently underway. AstraZeneca will make its safety report available on the EMA website in the next week. The vaccine has been greenlit across the European Union, but is yet to receive approval from US regulators.

AstraZeneca finds no evidence of blood clotting risk as countries restrict use of its vaccine

European countries France and Italy&nbsp;suspended&nbsp;the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine over safety fears on Monday.

Several EU countries have called a halt to the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine after reports from Denmark and Norway of possible serious side-effects, including bleeding and blood clots.

The WHO said its advisory panel was reviewing reports related to the shot and would release its findings as soon as possible. But it said it was unlikely to change its recommendations, issued last month, for widespread use, including in countries where the South African variant of the virus may reduce its efficacy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-suspends-astrazeneca-jabs-over-reported-clot-risks-health-ministry-370703" hreflang="en">Germany suspends AstraZeneca jabs over reported clot risks: Health Ministry</a>

"As of today, there is no evidence that the incidents are caused by the vaccine and it is important that vaccination campaigns continue so that we can save lives and stem severe disease from the virus," WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier said.

AstraZeneca's shot was among the first and cheapest to be developed and launched at volume since the coronavirus was first identified in central China at the end of 2019 and is set to be the mainstay of vaccination programmes in much of the developing world. The virus has killed more than 2.7 million people.

Thailand became the first country outside Europe to delay rolling out the vaccine on Friday, when its political leaders were due to have the first shots, but the government said on Monday they would receive the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine on Tuesday.

Indonesia, however, said it would delay administering the shot due to the reports of blood clots among some recipients in Europe and would await a review from the WHO.

The WHO had already said there was no indication the events were caused by the vaccination, a view also expressed by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), which said the number of reported blood clots was no higher than seen in the general population.

The handful of reported side-effects in Europe have upset vaccination programmes already under pressure over slow rollouts and vaccine scepticism in some countries.

The Netherlands said on Monday it had seen 10 cases of possible noteworthy adverse side-effects from the&nbsp;AstraZeneca&nbsp;vaccine, hours after the government put its vaccination programme on hold following reports of potential side-effects in other countries.

Denmark reported "highly unusual" symptoms in a 60-year-old citizen who died from a blood clot after receiving the vaccine, the same phrase used on Saturday by Norway about three people under the age of 50 it said were being treated in hospital.

"It was an unusual course of illness around the death that made the Danish Medicines Agency react," the agency said in a statement late on Sunday.

AstraZeneca&nbsp;Plc said earlier it had conducted a review covering more than 17 million people vaccinated in the European Union and the UK which had shown no evidence of an increased risk of blood clots.

European countries France and Italy suspended the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine over safety fears on Monday. Several EU countries have called a halt to the AstraZeneca vaccine after reports from Denmark and Norway of possible serious side-effects, including bleeding and blood clots.

European countries France and Italy suspended the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine over safety fears on Monday. Several EU countries have called a halt to the AstraZeneca vaccine after reports from Denmark and Norway of possible serious side-effects, including bleeding and blood clots. The WHO said its advisory panel was reviewing reports related to the shot and would release its findings as soon as possible. But it said it was unlikely to change its recommendations, issued last month, for widespread use, including in countries where the South African variant of the virus may reduce its efficacy. Also read: Germany suspends AstraZeneca jabs over reported clot risks: Health Ministry "As of today, there is no evidence that the incidents are caused by the vaccine and it is important that vaccination campaigns continue so that we can save lives and stem severe disease from the virus," WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier said. AstraZeneca's shot was among the first and cheapest to be developed and launched at volume since the coronavirus was first identified in central China at the end of 2019 and is set to be the mainstay of vaccination programmes in much of the developing world. The virus has killed more than 2.7 million people. Thailand became the first country outside Europe to delay rolling out the vaccine on Friday, when its political leaders were due to have the first shots, but the government said on Monday they would receive the AstraZeneca vaccine on Tuesday. Indonesia, however, said it would delay administering the shot due to the reports of blood clots among some recipients in Europe and would await a review from the WHO. The WHO had already said there was no indication the events were caused by the vaccination, a view also expressed by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), which said the number of reported blood clots was no higher than seen in the general population. The handful of reported side-effects in Europe have upset vaccination programmes already under pressure over slow rollouts and vaccine scepticism in some countries. The Netherlands said on Monday it had seen 10 cases of possible noteworthy adverse side-effects from the AstraZeneca vaccine, hours after the government put its vaccination programme on hold following reports of potential side-effects in other countries. Denmark reported "highly unusual" symptoms in a 60-year-old citizen who died from a blood clot after receiving the vaccine, the same phrase used on Saturday by Norway about three people under the age of 50 it said were being treated in hospital. "It was an unusual course of illness around the death that made the Danish Medicines Agency react," the agency said in a statement late on Sunday. AstraZeneca Plc said earlier it had conducted a review covering more than 17 million people vaccinated in the European Union and the UK which had shown no evidence of an increased risk of blood clots.

France, Italy suspend use of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine

Germany on Monday suspended the use of the Astra Zeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, over new reports of dangerous blood clots in connection with the shot.

The Health Ministry said the decision was taken as a "precaution" and on the advice of Germany's national vaccine regulator, the Paul Ehrlich Institute, which called for further investigation of the cases.

"After new reports of thromboses of the cerebral veins in connection with the vaccination in Germany and Europe, the PEI considers further investigations to be necessary," said the German health ministry. 
 
AstraZeneca Update: EU faces vaccine shortage, supplies to be blamed

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/astrazeneca-update-eu-faces-vaccine-shortage-supplies-to-be-blamed-370677/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The European Medicines Agency EMA will decide whether and how the new findings will affect the approval of the vaccine," it added.

Denmark, Iceland and Norway have already stopped administering the shot while Italy has banned the use of a batch of AstraZeneca doses as a precaution after an unconfirmed number of people developed blood clots.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization appealed to countries not to pause vaccination campaigns after two more European nations and one in Asia joined handfuls which have suspended the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine over safety fears.

The WHO said its advisory panel was reviewing reports related to the shot and would release its findings as soon as possible. But it said it was unlikely to change its recommendations, issued last month, for widespread use, including in countries where the South African variant of the virus may reduce its efficacy.

AstraZeneca's shot was among the first and cheapest to be developed and launched at volume since the coronavirus was first identified in central China at the end of 2019 and is set to be the mainstay of vaccination programmes in much of the developing world. The virus has killed more than 2.7 million people.

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany on Monday suspended the use of the Astra Zeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, over new reports of dangerous blood clots in connection with the shot. The Health Ministry said the decision was taken as a "precaution" and on the advice of Germany's national vaccine regulator, the Paul Ehrlich Institute, which called for further investigation of the cases.

Germany on Monday suspended the use of the Astra Zeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, over new reports of dangerous blood clots in connection with the shot. The Health Ministry said the decision was taken as a "precaution" and on the advice of Germany's national vaccine regulator, the Paul Ehrlich Institute, which called for further investigation of the cases. "After new reports of thromboses of the cerebral veins in connection with the vaccination in Germany and Europe, the PEI considers further investigations to be necessary," said the German health ministry. AstraZeneca Update: EU faces vaccine shortage, supplies to be blamed "The European Medicines Agency EMA will decide whether and how the new findings will affect the approval of the vaccine," it added. Denmark, Iceland and Norway have already stopped administering the shot while Italy has banned the use of a batch of AstraZeneca doses as a precaution after an unconfirmed number of people developed blood clots. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization appealed to countries not to pause vaccination campaigns after two more European nations and one in Asia joined handfuls which have suspended the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine over safety fears. The WHO said its advisory panel was reviewing reports related to the shot and would release its findings as soon as possible. But it said it was unlikely to change its recommendations, issued last month, for widespread use, including in countries where the South African variant of the virus may reduce its efficacy. AstraZeneca's shot was among the first and cheapest to be developed and launched at volume since the coronavirus was first identified in central China at the end of 2019 and is set to be the mainstay of vaccination programmes in much of the developing world. The virus has killed more than 2.7 million people. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany suspends AstraZeneca jabs over reported clot risks: Health Ministry

European Union vaccination drive stumbles as the production supply becomes the main reason for AstraZeneca shortage. Several countries have suspended the AstraZeneca vaccine over blood clot fears.

AstraZeneca Update: EU faces vaccine shortage, supplies to be blamed

AstraZeneca said that a review of safety data of people vaccinated with its COVID-19 vaccine has shown no evidence of an increased risk of blood clots.

AstraZeneca finds no evidence of blood clot risk from vaccine

The British-Swedish company AstraZeneca said that a safety review of people inoculated with its COVID-19 vaccine has shown no evidence of increased risk of blood clots.

AstraZeneca: No proof of risk of blood clots found

Piedmont region in northern region said on Sunday that it was stopping the use of a batch of AstrazZeneca COVID vaccine. This step has been taken after a teacher died following receiving vaccine on Saturday.

The region, around the northern city of Turin, had initially suspended all AstraZeneca vaccines in order to identify and isolate the batch from which the jab administered to the teacher, from the town of Biella, came.

The regional government said that the decision to suspend use was a precautionary measure. Piedmont is awaiting the results of checks which will verify whether there is a connection between the death and the vaccination

The statement did not specify what batch it had banned nor did it say how the teacher died. Italian newspapers reported it was batch ABV5811. A source close to the regional government confirmed it was batch ABV5811.

The regional government's statement said that the Piedmont region was also awaiting decisions from Italy's medicine's agency Aifa and a regional health commission on the issue.

"It is an act of extreme prudence, while we verify whether there is a connection. There have been no critical issues with the administration of vaccines to date," Luigi Genesio Icardi, head of regional health services, said in the statement.

Italy's medicine authority Aifa on Thursday banned the use of doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine belonging to the ABV2856 batch. Sources told Reuters the decision had been taken after the deaths of two men in Sicily.

Aifa had said that the ban was precautionary, adding that no link had been established between the vaccine and subsequent "serious adverse events".

(With AFP inputs)

Piedmont region in northern region said on Sunday that it was stopping the use of a batch of AstrazZeneca COVID vaccine. This step has been taken after a teacher died following receiving vaccine on Saturday.

Piedmont region in northern region said on Sunday that it was stopping the use of a batch of AstrazZeneca COVID vaccine. This step has been taken after a teacher died following receiving vaccine on Saturday. The region, around the northern city of Turin, had initially suspended all AstraZeneca vaccines in order to identify and isolate the batch from which the jab administered to the teacher, from the town of Biella, came. The regional government said that the decision to suspend use was a precautionary measure. Piedmont is awaiting the results of checks which will verify whether there is a connection between the death and the vaccination The statement did not specify what batch it had banned nor did it say how the teacher died. Italian newspapers reported it was batch ABV5811. A source close to the regional government confirmed it was batch ABV5811. The regional government's statement said that the Piedmont region was also awaiting decisions from Italy's medicine's agency Aifa and a regional health commission on the issue. "It is an act of extreme prudence, while we verify whether there is a connection. There have been no critical issues with the administration of vaccines to date," Luigi Genesio Icardi, head of regional health services, said in the statement. Italy's medicine authority Aifa on Thursday banned the use of doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine belonging to the ABV2856 batch. Sources told Reuters the decision had been taken after the deaths of two men in Sicily. Aifa had said that the ban was precautionary, adding that no link had been established between the vaccine and subsequent "serious adverse events". (With AFP inputs)

Piedmont region in Italy stops use of AstraZeneca vaccine batch

AstraZeneca COVID vaccine: These countries have suspended its use so far

After several European countries decided to impose a temporary ban on the usage of AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>, Ireland has also decided to suspend the use of this vaccine.

"The administration of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca is temporarily deferred from this morning, Sunday 14th March," a health ministry spokesperson told the news agency AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/norway-probes-blood-clot-cases-after-astrazeneca-vaccine-suspension-370309">Norway probes blood clot cases after AstraZeneca vaccine suspension</a>

This decision has been taken after there were several reported cases of blood clots being formed in people who took a shot of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine.

Earlier, Ireland's National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NUAC) had recommended suspending the rollout of AstraZeneca as a "precautionary principal" after "a report from the Norwegian Medicines Agency of four new reports of serious blood clotting events in adults after vaccination".

While it hasn't been concluded yet if there is any link between the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine and the blood clot cases, Ireland claims the decision has been taken "pending receipt of further information," Ireland's deputy chief medical officer Ronan Glynn said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-union-faces-shortfall-of-astrazeneca-vaccine-370391">Watch |</a>

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As of now, nearly 570,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine have been administered in Ireland, as per government data.

Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has denied these claims saying, "An analysis of our safety data that covers reported cases from more than 17 million doses of vaccine administered has shown no evidence of an increased risk" in blood clot conditions.

"In fact, the reported numbers of these types of events for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca are lower than the number that would have occurred naturally in the unvaccinated population," the statement read.

Ireland's announcement came a few hours after Norway reported three more cases of blood clots or brain haemorrhages in younger people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 jab, but said they could not yet say they were vaccine-related.

After several European countries decided to impose a temporary ban on the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, Ireland has also decided to suspend the use of this vaccine.

After several European countries decided to impose a temporary ban on the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, Ireland has also decided to suspend the use of this vaccine. "The administration of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca is temporarily deferred from this morning, Sunday 14th March," a health ministry spokesperson told the news agency AFP. Also read | Norway probes blood clot cases after AstraZeneca vaccine suspension This decision has been taken after there were several reported cases of blood clots being formed in people who took a shot of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. Earlier, Ireland's National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NUAC) had recommended suspending the rollout of AstraZeneca as a "precautionary principal" after "a report from the Norwegian Medicines Agency of four new reports of serious blood clotting events in adults after vaccination". While it hasn't been concluded yet if there is any link between the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine and the blood clot cases, Ireland claims the decision has been taken "pending receipt of further information," Ireland's deputy chief medical officer Ronan Glynn said. Watch | As of now, nearly 570,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine have been administered in Ireland, as per government data. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has denied these claims saying, "An analysis of our safety data that covers reported cases from more than 17 million doses of vaccine administered has shown no evidence of an increased risk" in blood clot conditions. "In fact, the reported numbers of these types of events for COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca are lower than the number that would have occurred naturally in the unvaccinated population," the statement read. Ireland's announcement came a few hours after Norway reported three more cases of blood clots or brain haemorrhages in younger people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 jab, but said they could not yet say they were vaccine-related.

Ireland suspends use of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine

The European Union is facing a further shortfall in its Coronavirus inoculation program. This after the pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said that production problems and experts restrictions would reduce plan deliveries of its vaccine. Several countries have suspended the AstraZeneca vaccine over blood clot fears. ‌

European union faces shortfall of AstraZeneca vaccine

European Union is facing fresh shortfall of coronavirus vaccines after Anglo/Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said production problems and export restrictions would reduce vaccine delivery. Several countries have suspended use of AstraZeneca vaccines over blood clot fears. AstraZeneca's image has taken a hit even after World Health Organisation (WHO) said that there was no reason to stop using it.

The company had previously warned it was facing shortfalls from its European supply chain due to "lower-than-expected output from the production process" and was hoping to compensate in part by sourcing vaccines from its global network.

"Unfortunately, export restrictions will reduce deliveries in the first quarter, and are likely to affect deliveries in the second quarter," it confirmed in a statement sent to AFP on Saturday.

'Unacceptable'

AstraZeneca started delivering vaccines to European Union in February. It aims to deliver 100 million doses in first half of 2021.

AstraZeneca had initially agreed to supply three times as many doses in the first quarter, and 180 million doses in second quarter alone.

The EU on Saturday sidestepped the issue of the number of AstraZeneca doses it was expecting. "We are aware that the company is experiencing supply issues and that discussions are on-going," it said.

Germany has already reported adverse effects due to the delay, the state of Thuringia cancelling appointments and suspending a pilot project for general practitioners to administer the vaccine.

Thuringia had been due to receive 31,200 doses next week, but the number has been reduced to 9,600.

The state's health minister, Heike Werner, called the delay "absolutely unacceptable".&nbsp;

French Prime Minister Jean Castex said his government still expected to exceed a target of 10 million vaccinated by April 15, though he deplored that some labs were not respecting delivery deadlines.

Castex defended the use of the AstraZeneca jab despite precautions taken by other nations.

"I would not allow myself to send poison to my fellow citizens," he said during a visit to a vaccination centre.

(With AFP inputs)

European Union is facing fresh shortfall of coronavirus vaccines after Anglo/Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said production problems and export restrictions would reduce vaccine delivery.

European Union is facing fresh shortfall of coronavirus vaccines after Anglo/Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said production problems and export restrictions would reduce vaccine delivery. Several countries have suspended use of AstraZeneca vaccines over blood clot fears. AstraZeneca's image has taken a hit even after World Health Organisation (WHO) said that there was no reason to stop using it. The company had previously warned it was facing shortfalls from its European supply chain due to "lower-than-expected output from the production process" and was hoping to compensate in part by sourcing vaccines from its global network. "Unfortunately, export restrictions will reduce deliveries in the first quarter, and are likely to affect deliveries in the second quarter," it confirmed in a statement sent to AFP on Saturday. 'Unacceptable' AstraZeneca started delivering vaccines to European Union in February. It aims to deliver 100 million doses in first half of 2021. AstraZeneca had initially agreed to supply three times as many doses in the first quarter, and 180 million doses in second quarter alone. The EU on Saturday sidestepped the issue of the number of AstraZeneca doses it was expecting. "We are aware that the company is experiencing supply issues and that discussions are on-going," it said. Germany has already reported adverse effects due to the delay, the state of Thuringia cancelling appointments and suspending a pilot project for general practitioners to administer the vaccine. Thuringia had been due to receive 31,200 doses next week, but the number has been reduced to 9,600. The state's health minister, Heike Werner, called the delay "absolutely unacceptable". French Prime Minister Jean Castex said his government still expected to exceed a target of 10 million vaccinated by April 15, though he deplored that some labs were not respecting delivery deadlines. Castex defended the use of the AstraZeneca jab despite precautions taken by other nations. "I would not allow myself to send poison to my fellow citizens," he said during a visit to a vaccination centre. (With AFP inputs)

EU: Fresh shortfall of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine supplies

Thailand has delayed its roll-out of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, a health official said Friday, after several European nations suspended their programmes over blood clot fears.

The kingdom was scheduled to start the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine roll-out on Friday, with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha expected to get the first jab.

"Vaccine injection for Thais must be safe, we do not have to be in a hurry," said Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn, an advisor for the country's Covid-19 vaccine committee, in a press conference.

"Though the quality of AstraZeneca is good, some countries have asked for a delay. We will delay (as well)."&nbsp;

The move comes after Denmark, Norway and Iceland suspended the use of the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab the day before.&nbsp;

Austria on Sunday stopped using doses from one batch after a 49-year-old nurse died of "severe blood coagulation problems" days after receiving an anti-Covid shot.

However, there is still no established link between the vaccine and side effects of blood clots, and Denmark stressed that its move was merely precautionary as they examine the risks more closely.&nbsp;

"We are waiting for Denmark and Austria to make a conclusion," said virologist Yong Poovarawan. &nbsp;

"We are delaying to let others prove (the side effects) of whether or not it is because of the vaccine or if it is only on that specific batch," he said, adding that the batch Thailand has received was manufactured in a factory in Asia.&nbsp;

Thailand appears to have escaped the brunt of the coronavirus, registering 26,000 cases and 85 deaths.&nbsp;

It had already rolled out its vaccination campaign last month with the Chinese-made Sinovac vaccine, and health workers were the first to receive the injections on February 28.

Thailand has delayed its roll-out of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, a health official said Friday, after several European nations suspended their programmes over blood clot fears.

Thailand has delayed its roll-out of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, a health official said Friday, after several European nations suspended their programmes over blood clot fears. The kingdom was scheduled to start the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine roll-out on Friday, with Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha expected to get the first jab. "Vaccine injection for Thais must be safe, we do not have to be in a hurry," said Piyasakol Sakolsatayadorn, an advisor for the country's Covid-19 vaccine committee, in a press conference. "Though the quality of AstraZeneca is good, some countries have asked for a delay. We will delay (as well)." The move comes after Denmark, Norway and Iceland suspended the use of the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab the day before. Austria on Sunday stopped using doses from one batch after a 49-year-old nurse died of "severe blood coagulation problems" days after receiving an anti-Covid shot. However, there is still no established link between the vaccine and side effects of blood clots, and Denmark stressed that its move was merely precautionary as they examine the risks more closely. "We are waiting for Denmark and Austria to make a conclusion," said virologist Yong Poovarawan. "We are delaying to let others prove (the side effects) of whether or not it is because of the vaccine or if it is only on that specific batch," he said, adding that the batch Thailand has received was manufactured in a factory in Asia. Thailand appears to have escaped the brunt of the coronavirus, registering 26,000 cases and 85 deaths. It had already rolled out its vaccination campaign last month with the Chinese-made Sinovac vaccine, and health workers were the first to receive the injections on February 28.

Thailand delays AstraZeneca vaccine rollout

A few hours after several reports suggested that AstraZeneca's side effects include blood clotting, the EU drug regulator has asked to add severe allergies to the list of side-effects from this<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine?page=1"> coronavirus vaccine.</a>

On Friday, the EU drug regulator said that severe allergies should be added to the possible side effects of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine as the regulator has found likely links of such cases in the UK.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/excellent-vaccine-who-backs-use-of-astrazenecas-coronavirus-vaccine-369954" hreflang="en">'Excellent vaccine': WHO backs use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine</a>

The EMA said it had "recommended an update to the product information to include anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) as side effects".

This call for action has come a day after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) started an investigation of the claim that blood clots were formed in a handful of cases in Denmark after the patient got vaccinated with AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-assessing-reports-on-risks-related-to-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-369845">WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine</a>

In the highlights of the EMA committee assessing risks of medications, the EMA said, "the update is based on a review of 41 reports of possible anaphylaxis seen among around 5 million vaccinations in the United Kingdom."

It has also asserted that the declaration has been made after a review of the provided data. "After careful review of the data, (the committee) considered that a link to the vaccine was likely in at least some of these cases," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxford-astrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-can-be-used-until-probe-results-eu-regulator-369788" hreflang="en">Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine can be used until probe results: EU regulator</a>

This has also raised an important warning by AstraZeneca where the company has asked that the people receiving the jab should be kept under "close observation for at least 15 minutes" after getting inoculated, to monitor any allergic reactions.

Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has also issued a statement assuring that its coronavirus vaccine is safe to be used and has dismissed blood clotting as a side effect.

"An analysis of our safety data of more than 10 million records has shown no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis in any defined age group, gender, batch or in any particular country," a spokesperson said.

"In fact, the observed number of these types of events are significantly lower in those vaccinated than would be expected among the general population."

A few hours after several reports suggested that AstraZeneca's side effects include blood clotting, the EU drug regulator has asked to add severe allergies to the list of side-effects from this coronavirus vaccine.

A few hours after several reports suggested that AstraZeneca's side effects include blood clotting, the EU drug regulator has asked to add severe allergies to the list of side-effects from this coronavirus vaccine. On Friday, the EU drug regulator said that severe allergies should be added to the possible side effects of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine as the regulator has found likely links of such cases in the UK. Also read | 'Excellent vaccine': WHO backs use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine The EMA said it had "recommended an update to the product information to include anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity (allergic reactions) as side effects". This call for action has come a day after the European Medicines Agency (EMA) started an investigation of the claim that blood clots were formed in a handful of cases in Denmark after the patient got vaccinated with AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. Also read | WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine In the highlights of the EMA committee assessing risks of medications, the EMA said, "the update is based on a review of 41 reports of possible anaphylaxis seen among around 5 million vaccinations in the United Kingdom." It has also asserted that the declaration has been made after a review of the provided data. "After careful review of the data, (the committee) considered that a link to the vaccine was likely in at least some of these cases," it said. Also read | Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine can be used until probe results: EU regulator This has also raised an important warning by AstraZeneca where the company has asked that the people receiving the jab should be kept under "close observation for at least 15 minutes" after getting inoculated, to monitor any allergic reactions. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca has also issued a statement assuring that its coronavirus vaccine is safe to be used and has dismissed blood clotting as a side effect. "An analysis of our safety data of more than 10 million records has shown no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis in any defined age group, gender, batch or in any particular country," a spokesperson said. "In fact, the observed number of these types of events are significantly lower in those vaccinated than would be expected among the general population."

Severe allergy side-effect of AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine: EU drug regulator

After a flurry of concerning reports from various resources, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine.</a>

"AstraZeneca is an excellent vaccine, as are the other vaccines that are being used," the WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-assessing-reports-on-risks-related-to-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-369845">WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine</a>

WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) has been assessing the reports on the concerns of risks of side-effects including blood clots.

The concern was raised by several European states who even suggested temporarily suspending the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine worrying about its possible side-effects on the locals.

However, a WHO spokesperson clarified saying there is no reason not to use the AstraZeneca vaccine. "Yes, we should continue using the AstraZeneca vaccine," Margaret Harris said. "There is no indication to not use it."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-medical-agencies-backs-astrazeneca-vaccine-after-suspensions-369937">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/european-medical-agencies-backs-astrazeneca-vaccine-after-suspensions-369937/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For now, the WHO has also clarified that although its advisory committee is currently studying the safety data provided, there is no causal link between the vaccine and blood clotting.

"We've reviewed the data on deaths. There has been no death, to date, proven to have be caused by vaccination," Harris claimed.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Italy and Romania have limited and postponed the rollout of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine since&nbsp;isolated reports of recipients developing blood clots.

While Harris has backed the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine on behalf of WHO, she has also stressed that any safety signal must be investigated.

"We must always ensure that we look for any safety signals when we roll out vaccines, and we must review them," she said. "But there is no indication to not use it."

After a flurry of concerning reports from various resources, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. "AstraZeneca is an excellent vaccine, as are the other vaccines that are being used," the WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said.

After a flurry of concerning reports from various resources, the World Health Organization (WHO) has backed the use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine. "AstraZeneca is an excellent vaccine, as are the other vaccines that are being used," the WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said. Also read | WHO assessing reports on risks related to AstraZeneca Covid vaccine WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) has been assessing the reports on the concerns of risks of side-effects including blood clots. The concern was raised by several European states who even suggested temporarily suspending the usage of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine worrying about its possible side-effects on the locals. However, a WHO spokesperson clarified saying there is no reason not to use the AstraZeneca vaccine. "Yes, we should continue using the AstraZeneca vaccine," Margaret Harris said. "There is no indication to not use it." WATCH | For now, the WHO has also clarified that although its advisory committee is currently studying the safety data provided, there is no causal link between the vaccine and blood clotting. "We've reviewed the data on deaths. There has been no death, to date, proven to have be caused by vaccination," Harris claimed. Meanwhile, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Italy and Romania have limited and postponed the rollout of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine since isolated reports of recipients developing blood clots. While Harris has backed the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine on behalf of WHO, she has also stressed that any safety signal must be investigated. "We must always ensure that we look for any safety signals when we roll out vaccines, and we must review them," she said. "But there is no indication to not use it."

'Excellent vaccine': WHO backs use of AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine

'There is currently no indication that the vaccination has caused these conditions, which are not listed as side effects with this vaccine', says European Medicines Agency

European Medical Agencies backs AstraZeneca vaccine after suspensions

Denmark, Norway and Iceland halt the COVID-19's vaccine AstraZeneca rollout after the recent blood clot reports. This vaccine will be suspended for 14 days in Denmark.

European Union nations halt AstraZeneca rollout over blood clot reports

After several Nordic nations suspended the use of Oxford-AstraZeneca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a>, the European Union's drug regulator advised European countries to keep using the jabs during a probe of blood clots cases.&nbsp;

"The position of EMA's safety committee... is that the vaccine's benefits continue to outweigh its risks and the vaccine can continue to be administered while investigation of cases of thromboembolic events is ongoing," European Medicines Agency (EMA) in a statement said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/astrazeneca-vaccine-effective-against-brazil-variant-study-368333/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There is currently no indication that vaccination has caused these conditions, which are not listed as side effects with this vaccine."

The regulator's assurance comes after the United Kingdom defended Oxford's vaccine, saying it's "safe and effective".&nbsp;

"We've been clear that it's both safe and effective... and when people are asked to come forward and take it, they should do so in confidence," PM Boris Johnson's spokesman told reporters.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-suspends-use-of-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-due-to-blood-clot-fears-369692">Denmark, Norway suspend use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears</a>

He also said that country's vaccine programme results have lowered the number of Covid-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths, suggesting that the vaccine is safe.&nbsp;

Denmark, Norway and Iceland on Thursday temporarily paused the use of AstraZeneca's vaccine over cases of patients developing blood clots after receiving jabs.

Amongst the three nations, Denmark was the first to announce the suspension, with the country's health authority saying "serious cases of blood clots" have been detected.

However, it said that the measure is "precautionary" and at the moment it has found no connection between AstraZeneca's jabs and blood clots.

After several Nordic nations suspended the use of Oxford-AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the European Union's drug regulator advised European countries to keep using the jabs during a probe of blood clots cases.

After several Nordic nations suspended the use of Oxford-AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine, the European Union's drug regulator advised European countries to keep using the jabs during a probe of blood clots cases. "The position of EMA's safety committee... is that the vaccine's benefits continue to outweigh its risks and the vaccine can continue to be administered while investigation of cases of thromboembolic events is ongoing," European Medicines Agency (EMA) in a statement said. Watch | "There is currently no indication that vaccination has caused these conditions, which are not listed as side effects with this vaccine." The regulator's assurance comes after the United Kingdom defended Oxford's vaccine, saying it's "safe and effective". "We've been clear that it's both safe and effective... and when people are asked to come forward and take it, they should do so in confidence," PM Boris Johnson's spokesman told reporters. Also read | Denmark, Norway suspend use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears He also said that country's vaccine programme results have lowered the number of Covid-19 cases, hospitalisations, and deaths, suggesting that the vaccine is safe. Denmark, Norway and Iceland on Thursday temporarily paused the use of AstraZeneca's vaccine over cases of patients developing blood clots after receiving jabs. Amongst the three nations, Denmark was the first to announce the suspension, with the country's health authority saying "serious cases of blood clots" have been detected. However, it said that the measure is "precautionary" and at the moment it has found no connection between AstraZeneca's jabs and blood clots.

Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine can be used until probe results: EU regulator

The European Union on Thursday&nbsp;approved Johnson &amp; Johnson's single-dose coronavirus vaccine, as the bloc seeks to speed up a stuttering inoculation campaign and boost its supplies of vaccines.

&nbsp;

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📢 EMA has just recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19vaccine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19vaccine</a> Janssen to prevent <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in people from 18 years of age. 
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Johnson&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Johnson is the fourth to be endorsed for use in the EU after Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-Oxford University and Moderna. Three other vaccines are under "rolling review" by the Amsterdam-based EMA,&nbsp;Novavax, CureVac and Russia's Sputnik.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-suspends-use-of-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-due-to-blood-clot-fears-369692" hreflang="en">Denmark suspends use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears&nbsp;</a>

US pharma giant J&amp;J filed on February 16 for approval for the vaccine, developed by its Belgian subsidiary Janssen.&nbsp;The company has committed to deliver 200 million doses of its vaccine to the bloc this year.

As well as being the first that requires a single injection as opposed to two, the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine is easier to store.

The J&amp;J shot however appears less protective than Pfizer and Moderna's regimes, which both have an efficacy of around 95 per cent against all forms of Covid-19 from the classic coronavirus strain.

'Bumpy' strategy'

The EU has been struggling with a disappointing vaccination rollout that started in January and faltered because of a lack of doses produced by the three suppliers so far.&nbsp;

The head of the EU's vaccine supply task force, Thierry Breton, said on Tuesday the EU's "bumpy" vaccine strategy should be augmented by the addition of the Johnson &amp; Johnson jab.

Reported production shortfalls in the United States by Johnson &amp; Johnson would not impact the EU because Brussels had made contingency plans for all vaccines, he said.

"Do not believe that because one company has a problem that overall it will jeopardise the whole programme," said Breton, the EU's industry commissioner.

Europe's vaccination strategy faced fresh problems on Wednesday as Denmark and Norway said they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine after some patients developed blood clots

The European Union on Thursday approved Johnson & Johnson's single-dose coronavirus vaccine, as the bloc seeks to speed up a stuttering inoculation campaign and boost its supplies of vaccines.

The European Union on Thursday approved Johnson & Johnson's single-dose coronavirus vaccine, as the bloc seeks to speed up a stuttering inoculation campaign and boost its supplies of vaccines. 📢 EMA has just recommended granting a conditional marketing authorisation for #COVID19vaccine Janssen to prevent #COVID19 in people from 18 years of age. 👉 https://t.co/j7jetH1Tbx pic.twitter.com/cKGKujrqYp — EU Medicines Agency (@EMA_News) March 11, 2021 × Johnson & Johnson is the fourth to be endorsed for use in the EU after Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-Oxford University and Moderna. Three other vaccines are under "rolling review" by the Amsterdam-based EMA, Novavax, CureVac and Russia's Sputnik. Also read| Denmark suspends use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears US pharma giant J&J filed on February 16 for approval for the vaccine, developed by its Belgian subsidiary Janssen. The company has committed to deliver 200 million doses of its vaccine to the bloc this year. As well as being the first that requires a single injection as opposed to two, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is easier to store. The J&J shot however appears less protective than Pfizer and Moderna's regimes, which both have an efficacy of around 95 per cent against all forms of Covid-19 from the classic coronavirus strain. 'Bumpy' strategy' The EU has been struggling with a disappointing vaccination rollout that started in January and faltered because of a lack of doses produced by the three suppliers so far. The head of the EU's vaccine supply task force, Thierry Breton, said on Tuesday the EU's "bumpy" vaccine strategy should be augmented by the addition of the Johnson & Johnson jab. Reported production shortfalls in the United States by Johnson & Johnson would not impact the EU because Brussels had made contingency plans for all vaccines, he said. "Do not believe that because one company has a problem that overall it will jeopardise the whole programme," said Breton, the EU's industry commissioner. Europe's vaccination strategy faced fresh problems on Wednesday as Denmark and Norway said they were temporarily suspending the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine after some patients developed blood clots

European Union gives green light to Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine

Health authorities in Denmark said on Thursday said that they were temporarily suspending use of COVID-19 vaccine. This precaution is being taken as some patients developed blood clots after they received the vaccine.&nbsp;

Danish Health Authority said in statement that suspension of AstraZeneca vaccine came "following reports of serious cases of blood clots among people vaccinated with AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine"

However, it added that "it has not been determined, at the time being, that there is a link between the vaccine and the blood clots"

Hours after Denmark's decision, Norwegian health authorities said that they were suspending the use of AstraZeneca vaccine as a precaution.

"We are pausing the AstraZeneca vaccination in Norway," the director of infection prevention and control at the National Institute of Health, Geir Bukholm, told reporters.&nbsp;

"We are waiting for more information to see if there is a link between the vaccine and this blood clot case," he said.

Austria announced on Monday that it had suspended the use of a batch of AstraZeneca vaccines after a 49-year-old nurse died of "severe blood coagulation problems" days after receiving an anti-Covid shot.

Four other European countries -- Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Luxemburg -- have also suspended the use of vaccines from this batch, which was sent to 17 European countries and consisting of one million jabs.

Denmark has however suspended the use of all of its AstraZeneca supply.

On Wednesday, &nbsp;Europe's medicines watchdog EMA said a preliminary probe showed that the batch of AstraZeneca vaccines used in Austria was likely not to blame for the nurse's death.

As of March 9, 22 cases of blood clots had been reported among more than three million people vaccinated in the European Economic Area, the EMA said.

Meanwhile UK PM Boris Johnson's spokesperson said on Thursday that AstraZeneca vaccine was safe.

"We've been clear that it's both safe and effective... and when people are asked to come forward and take it, they should do so in confidence," said the official spokesperson

(With AFP inputs)

Health authorities in Denmark said on Thursday said that they were temporarily suspending use of COVID-19 vaccine. This precaution is being taken as some patients developed blood clots after they received the vaccine.

Health authorities in Denmark said on Thursday said that they were temporarily suspending use of COVID-19 vaccine. This precaution is being taken as some patients developed blood clots after they received the vaccine. Danish Health Authority said in statement that suspension of AstraZeneca vaccine came "following reports of serious cases of blood clots among people vaccinated with AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine" However, it added that "it has not been determined, at the time being, that there is a link between the vaccine and the blood clots" Hours after Denmark's decision, Norwegian health authorities said that they were suspending the use of AstraZeneca vaccine as a precaution. "We are pausing the AstraZeneca vaccination in Norway," the director of infection prevention and control at the National Institute of Health, Geir Bukholm, told reporters. "We are waiting for more information to see if there is a link between the vaccine and this blood clot case," he said. Austria announced on Monday that it had suspended the use of a batch of AstraZeneca vaccines after a 49-year-old nurse died of "severe blood coagulation problems" days after receiving an anti-Covid shot. Four other European countries -- Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Luxemburg -- have also suspended the use of vaccines from this batch, which was sent to 17 European countries and consisting of one million jabs. Denmark has however suspended the use of all of its AstraZeneca supply. On Wednesday, Europe's medicines watchdog EMA said a preliminary probe showed that the batch of AstraZeneca vaccines used in Austria was likely not to blame for the nurse's death. As of March 9, 22 cases of blood clots had been reported among more than three million people vaccinated in the European Economic Area, the EMA said. Meanwhile UK PM Boris Johnson's spokesperson said on Thursday that AstraZeneca vaccine was safe. "We've been clear that it's both safe and effective... and when people are asked to come forward and take it, they should do so in confidence," said the official spokesperson (With AFP inputs)

Denmark, Norway suspend use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine due to blood clot fears 

Kremlin on Tuesday slammed&nbsp;claims it was spearheading a disinformation campaign against US-made coronavirus vaccines to boost its own homegrown jab were "absurd and groundless".&nbsp;

The comments come a day after Washington said Russian intelligence was behind four websites involved in a campaign to undermine US-made vaccines, accusing Russia of putting lives at risk.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-risking-lives-by-running-disinformation-campaign-against-vaccines-us-369006">Russia risking lives by running disinformation campaign against vaccines: US</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the allegations "absurd and groundless".

"Russia has never taken part and is not going to take part in such information campaigns against other vaccines," Peskov told reporters.

On the contrary, he said, Russia was cooperating with foreign vaccine producers "to make a more effective product".

"We've always been against politicising any issues related to the vaccine in any way," he said.

Peskov added that once jabs are tested and approved "they should be produced as much as possible to save the entire world from the coronavirus and save as many human lives as possible".

Putin has boasted that Russia has developed the world's best vaccines against the coronavirus, insisting last week they were better than the Pfizer and AstraZeneca jabs.

The Global Engagement Center -- an arm of the State Department whose activities include monitoring foreign propaganda -- made the claims of Russian disinformation on Monday.&nbsp;

The four online platforms spread "disinformation about two of the vaccines that have now been approved by the FDA in this country," US State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters, referring to the US Food and Drug Administration.

US intelligence has long suspected Russia in disinformation campaigns on health, including spreading the myth in the 1980s that US scientists created the HIV virus that causes AIDS.

Kremlin on Tuesday slammed claims it was spearheading a disinformation campaign against US-made coronavirus vaccines to boost its own homegrown jab were "absurd and groundless".

Kremlin on Tuesday slammed claims it was spearheading a disinformation campaign against US-made coronavirus vaccines to boost its own homegrown jab were "absurd and groundless". The comments come a day after Washington said Russian intelligence was behind four websites involved in a campaign to undermine US-made vaccines, accusing Russia of putting lives at risk. Also read: Russia risking lives by running disinformation campaign against vaccines: US Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the allegations "absurd and groundless". "Russia has never taken part and is not going to take part in such information campaigns against other vaccines," Peskov told reporters. On the contrary, he said, Russia was cooperating with foreign vaccine producers "to make a more effective product". "We've always been against politicising any issues related to the vaccine in any way," he said. Peskov added that once jabs are tested and approved "they should be produced as much as possible to save the entire world from the coronavirus and save as many human lives as possible". Putin has boasted that Russia has developed the world's best vaccines against the coronavirus, insisting last week they were better than the Pfizer and AstraZeneca jabs. The Global Engagement Center -- an arm of the State Department whose activities include monitoring foreign propaganda -- made the claims of Russian disinformation on Monday. The four online platforms spread "disinformation about two of the vaccines that have now been approved by the FDA in this country," US State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters, referring to the US Food and Drug Administration. US intelligence has long suspected Russia in disinformation campaigns on health, including spreading the myth in the 1980s that US scientists created the HIV virus that causes AIDS.

Kremlin slams US vaccine disinformation claims 'absurd' and 'groundless'

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