According to a report by The Telegraph, AstraZeneca has announced plans to withdraw its Vaxzevria vaccine globally, citing an excess of updated vaccines due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The company stated that decreased demand for the vaccine prompted this decision. The withdrawal process began on March 5 and was finalized on May 7.
Additionally, AstraZeneca has revoked the marketing authorization for Vaxzevria in Europe, as reported by Reuters.
This decision follows recent acknowledgment by AstraZeneca in legal documentation that its Covid vaccines can, in rare instances, lead to Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), characterized by blood clots and low platelet counts.
However, the company emphasized that expert analysis is necessary to establish causation in each case. Despite these rare occurrences, AstraZeneca reiterated its confidence in the safety and effectiveness of its vaccine, prioritizing patient safety above all.
In response to ongoing legal challenges, AstraZeneca is facing multiple lawsuits alleging adverse reactions to its Covid-19 vaccines, including reports of fatalities. These legal battles began with a complaint filed by Jamie Scott, who claimed to have experienced severe brain impairment due to a blood clot and brain bleed after receiving the vaccine. Over 50 cases have been brought against AstraZeneca regarding vaccine-related effects.
Furthermore, AstraZeneca has acknowledged in court documents that its Covishield vaccine, developed in collaboration with the Serum Institute of India, can also cause rare side effects. The Indian Supreme Court is set to review a petition calling for an expert panel to investigate these side effects, although a hearing date has not been scheduled yet. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has acknowledged the petition.
