23 Deaths After COVID-19 Vaccination in Norway... Vaccination Advised Against for 'Super Elderly and Terminal Patients'

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Nahana] The number of people who died after receiving the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine in Norway has increased to 23.

According to Bloomberg, Norwegian authorities announced that as of the 14th (local time), 23 people who received Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine have died. Most of the deceased were elderly individuals aged 80 or older residing in nursing homes.

Of these, autopsies were conducted on 13 individuals, and Norwegian health authorities explained that the results suggested that common side effects following vaccination may have contributed to the deaths. Typical post-vaccination symptoms are known to include temporary arm pain, fatigue, headache, and fever.

Norwegian health authorities stated, "Even relatively mild vaccine side effects can lead to fatal outcomes in very vulnerable individuals," and added, "For those with limited life expectancy, the benefits of vaccination may be minimal or nonexistent," recommending restraint in vaccination.

Bloomberg explained, "This does not mean that young and healthy people should avoid COVID-19 vaccination," and added, "As countries that began vaccinations earlier start to release safety monitoring results, this serves as an early indicator of what to be cautious about."

Pfizer and BioNTech said they are cooperating with Norwegian authorities to investigate the causes of death, stating, "The number of incidents so far is not surprising and is consistent with expectations."

Meanwhile, Norway has focused on the most vulnerable groups at highest risk of COVID-19 infection and has completed the first dose for about 33,000 people. The Pfizer vaccine, approved at the end of last year, has been the most widely used, and the Moderna vaccine, approved earlier this month, has also begun distribution.