“The background to the decision is signals of an increased risk of heart muscle inflammation (myocarditis) and pericarditis.”

The Swedish Public Health Agency recommends that the protein-based covid-19 vaccine Nuvaxovid not be given to people 30 years of age and younger. The decision is temporary and applies from November 2, 2022.

The background to the decision is signals of an increased risk of heart muscle inflammation (myocarditis) and pericarditis (pericarditis). Data from Australia point to an increased incidence, especially in younger people, in connection with vaccination with Nuvaxovid. The recommendation is made for precautionary reasons and applies until there is more information from the ongoing studies. The vaccine can continue to be given as a primary vaccination or booster dose to individuals aged 31 and older.

– We are following the situation closely and await more data. But those who are younger and recently vaccinated with Nuvaxovid need not worry. The risk is very small and you can continue with the next dose with another vaccine, says Sören Andersson, head of the unit for vaccination programs.

Nuvaxovid has not been used to any great extent in Sweden. In total, this is about 7,000 doses. The current vaccine for vaccination of people under the age of 31 is Comirnaty, from Pfizer/BioNTech.

Both myocarditis and pericarditis often go away on their own, without causing any lasting problems, but suspicious symptoms should be assessed by a doctor at, for example, a health center or emergency room. Medical treatment and monitoring in hospital may be required in confirmed cases.

Sweden Public Health Department notice

Wikipedia – Nuvaxovid (aka Novavax)

 

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