Amid recent remarks by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah suggesting a possible link between COVID-19 vaccines and a spike in heart-related deaths in Hassan district, the Union Health Ministry has clarified that extensive scientific studies have found no evidence supporting such a claim. Siddaramaiah’s remarks came after over 20 deaths due to heart attacks were reported from Hassan district in the past month alone.
In a statement, the Ministry emphasised that extensive investigations carried out by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and AIIMS have established that COVID-19 vaccines in India are safe and effective, with only a few instances of side effects.
Also Read | Scientists find 20 new viruses in Chinese bats, two similar to Nipah, Hendra
Sudden cardiac deaths can result from a wide range of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, and post-COVID-19 complications, the ministry said in a statement.
The ICMR study
Conducted between May and August 2023 across 47 tertiary hospitals in 19 states and union territories, this study examined adults aged 18–45 who died suddenly despite appearing healthy. The findings clearly indicated that COVID-19 vaccines do not increase the risk of unexplained sudden deaths in this age group. The study is titled “Factors associated with unexplained sudden deaths among adults aged 18-45 years in India – a multi-centric matched case control study.”
The AIIMS study
Currently ongoing, this study, funded by ICMR, has so far found that heart attacks (myocardial infarction) remain the leading cause of sudden death among young adults. Early findings from the study show no unusual patterns or increases in causes of death post-COVID vaccination. Researchers have identified genetic mutations and pre-existing conditions as potential contributors in many cases.
In its statement, the Union Health Ministry has also cautioned that speculative claims not supported by scientific evidence can erode public trust and contribute to vaccine hesitancy, ultimately harming public health efforts.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the formation of an expert committee led by Dr Ravindranath, Director of Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, to investigate the deaths reported in Hassan district. He said the committee has been instructed to submit a report within 10 days.
