Backing the risks posed by the COVID19 vaccines, the World Health Organization (WHO) said the benefits of mRNA COVID19 vaccines outweigh the risks in reducing hospitalisations and deaths due to the coronavirus.

In a statement dated July 9, the WHO stated that there is a likely causal association between myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, and the mRNA vaccines (such as Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech).

“Very rare cases of myocarditis and pericarditis (an inflammation of the lining that surrounds the heart) have been observed following vaccination with the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines,” it said.

Caused usually by a viral infection, a severe case of myocarditis can weaken the heart leading to heart failure, abnormal heartbeat and sudden death.

Some of those who suffer from myocarditis, reportedly experience chest pain, and sometimes need additional oxygen support. However, as per WHO, these risks are often ‘mild’ and respond well to conservative treatment such as rest, and treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

“Vaccinated individuals should be instructed to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms indicative of myocarditis or pericarditis such as new onset and persisting chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations following vaccination,” advised WHO’s Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) in its statement.

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According to the health body, such cases were reported in multiple countries, including the United States. The reported cases have typically occurred within days of vaccination, more commonly among younger males and more often following the second dose of mRNA COVID19 vaccines.

However, WHO emphasised that the benefits of mRNA vaccines still outweigh the risks.

The very same day on July 9, Europe’s drug regulator said it has found a possible link between very rare heart inflammation and COVID19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. However, it also affirmed that the benefits of the vaccines outweigh any risks.

Earlier, on March 16, a group of 29 experts from various fields including public health, ethics, and medicine, informed the then Union health minister Harsh Vardhan of at least 65 deaths occurring post vaccination for COVID-19 since the vaccination campaign started on January 16.

Also Read: ‘At least 65 dead post COVID-19 vaccination in India, investigation needed’