Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, putting rest all those fears that sudden unexplained deaths among the young are due to the vaccines of Covid-19. A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research, ICMR said, the minister confirmed that the vaccines of Covid do not increase the risk of sudden death and actually decrease the possibility significantly.

Main Findings of the Research:

• Vaccination Lowers Risk: Early adults aged between 18 and 45 years old who received at least one vaccine dose, particularly two doses, had a lesser likelihood of sudden unexplained deaths.

• Extensive Research: ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology did the study. It surveyed 47 major hospitals in 19 states and union territories. It included 729 cases of sudden deaths and 2,916 control cases from October 2021 to March 2023.

• Contributing Factors to Sudden Deaths: After Covid-19 hospitalizations, having a family history of sudden death, binge drinking within 48 hours before death, using recreational drugs, and intense physical activity just before death were found to be risk factors.

Safety Rules in Force:
AEFI Surveillance: Vaccine safety is ensured through a robust AEFI surveillance system, while vaccine recipients are observed for 30 minutes post immunization and kits for treating anaphylaxis at all sites.
Awareness Programs: Guidelines and information materials in different languages are being sent to states to help them report vaccine-related side effects better. Social media campaigns and partnerships with immunization groups have increased public awareness.The study clears up confusion and fights false fears about vaccine safety. The results support that Covid-19 vaccines are safe and highlight the need to look at lifestyle and inherited risk factors for sudden deaths.
It would, however be a positive step toward building public trust in vaccination programs conducted by the government in India.