Government Responds to False Rumors About AZ Vaccine: "No Scientific Evidence, Large-Scale Vaccination in Major OECD Countries"
Encouraging Vaccination Ahead of Reservations for Those Aged 65 and Over
Son Young-rae, Head of Strategic Planning Division at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Welfare). Photo by Yonhap News
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] The government emphasized caution against false information surrounding COVID-19 vaccination one day before the reservation for those aged 65 to 69.
Son Youngrae, Head of the Social Strategy Division at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, explained at the regular briefing of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters on the afternoon of the 9th, "There is no need to be anxious due to rumors based on unscientific evidence or falsehoods," adding, "If adverse effects are reported after vaccination, a committee composed of independent medical and scientific experts thoroughly verifies the details."
He continued, "Among the 67 reported death cases up to April, 65 were due to other causes unrelated to the vaccine, and 2 cases are awaiting autopsy results," he added.
He said, "There are many sensational rumors such as 'dozens of people died after getting vaccinated,' but these are scientifically verified, and all have been confirmed false," adding, "Similar scientific verifications are conducted worldwide, and the results are the same."
Furthermore, Son stated, "There is a false rumor that the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine is not administered in advanced countries but only in South Korea," clarifying, "The AstraZeneca vaccine is being administered in more than 130 countries worldwide, including the UK and Europe."
He emphasized, "In the UK, where the vaccination rate is high, 21 million people, one-third of those vaccinated, received the AstraZeneca vaccine, and major OECD countries have conducted large-scale vaccinations without significant issues, which is why South Korea is also administering it."
Son also said, "Vaccination for the elderly is not aimed at achieving 'herd immunity' but is the best necessary choice to protect the life and safety of the elderly," presenting evidence that "the fatality rate of COVID-19 patients aged 60 and over is 5.2%, but a single dose can achieve 86% preventive effectiveness and prevent progression to severe illness."
He added, "Regarding the rare thrombosis, a side effect of the AstraZeneca vaccine that causes concern, it occurs in about 1 in 100,000 people, and most cases can be treated if detected early."
Son reiterated, "Do not believe anti-scientific and false rumors, and there is no need for excessive anxiety," and requested, "Please explain to and assist your elderly relatives, family members, and children in getting vaccinated and making reservations."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
