Jung Eun-kyung: "Regardless of Vaccine Causality, Comfort for Those Suffering from Adverse Reactions"

Blue House National Petition Response on 'Adverse Reactions After Vaccination'... 10 Million Won Support Per Case with Unclear Causality

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] On the 18th, Jeong Eun-kyung, Commissioner of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, conveyed condolences to those suffering from adverse reactions regardless of causality with COVID-19 vaccination in response to a Blue House national petition regarding 'adverse reactions after vaccination.'

The Blue House received several national petitions from citizens reporting adverse reactions after vaccination. Although none met the threshold of 200,000 signatures, the government’s stance was conveyed through Commissioner Jeong to alleviate public concerns.

Commissioner Jeong stated, "Although the 200,000-signature threshold has not yet been met, due to the many public concerns and anxieties, we are providing a response first." She added, "First, regardless of causality with the vaccine, I express my deep sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the petitioners and the families of patients who are suffering from adverse reactions after vaccination."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Commissioner Jeong emphasized, "I believe that every reported case related to adverse reactions is not something to be taken lightly."

She explained, "There have been many criticisms regarding insufficient compensation or support despite the government’s responsibility, and whether causality is being investigated objectively and fairly." She continued, "One of the most frustrating points raised was whether the causality assessment is conducted accurately."

Commissioner Jeong said, "Once an adverse reaction or damage compensation report is filed, a rapid response team composed of experts at the local government level reviews the causality. At the central level, the damage investigation team and the damage compensation expert committee deliberate to determine causality with the vaccine and whether compensation is warranted."

She explained, "Since the COVID-19 vaccine is a novel vaccine, for cases where causality is unclear, the system has been improved to provide approximately 10 million KRW per person in medical expenses for severe cases to offer protection."

Commissioner Jeong urged cooperation, stating that COVID-19 vaccination is the 'only means' to restore daily life.

She said, "The incidence of adverse reactions to vaccination is very low, and since vaccination clearly protects lives and health, I repeatedly urge everyone to get vaccinated."

Commissioner Jeong expressed, "I believe overcoming COVID-19 was possible thanks to the active participation of many citizens in quarantine efforts. I sincerely thank and respect all citizens," and pledged, "The government will listen more to public opinions and continue to improve vaccination and related systems."