AstraZeneca, the UK pharmaceutical giant, has acknowledged that its COVID-19 vaccine can result in a rare side effect identified as Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS).

This acknowledgement arises amidst the company's legal battle, which includes allegations of severe harm and fatalities attributed to the vaccine, as reported by The Telegraph. AstraZeneca, in collaboration with the University of Oxford for vaccine development, finds itself entangled in legal proceedings initiated by victims and their families. 

One such case involves Jamie Scott, a father of two, who pursued legal action following a blood clot that rendered him unable to work. Scott asserts that after receiving his vaccination in April 2021, he experienced a "blood clot and a bleed on his brain," leading to lasting brain damage. Kate, Scott's wife, asserted, "The medical community has long recognized that vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT) were triggered by the vaccine.

What is TTS (Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome)?

TTS, or Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, is an exceptionally rare condition characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of blood clot formation (thrombosis) and a low count of platelets (thrombocytopenia). It is alternatively referred to as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT).

However, in May 2023, AstraZeneca informed Scott's legal representatives that they do not universally recognize TTS as being vaccine-induced. In a legal document presented to the High Court, the multinational pharmaceutical company acknowledged, "We concede that the AZ vaccine..." Kate, the wife of a victim, expressed to The Telegraph, "The medical community has long recognized that VITT was induced by the vaccine. 

It's only AstraZeneca that has questioned whether Jamie's condition resulted from the jab." She perceives AstraZeneca's admission as a step forward after three years of struggle and calls for an apology and equitable compensation for her family and others impacted. TTS, or Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, is an exceptionally rare condition characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of blood clot formation (thrombosis) and a low count of platelets (thrombocytopenia). It is alternatively referred to as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). 

When a blood clot forms within a blood vessel, it can potentially obstruct blood flow, a condition known as thrombosis.

Thrombocytopenia refers to a condition characterized by a reduced count of platelets in the blood. Platelets are vital in the clotting process, aiding in the prevention of excessive bleeding. Currently, fifty-one cases have been brought before the High Court, with victims and their families seeking damages totaling over £100 million. AstraZeneca expressed condolences to those who have lost loved ones or experienced health issues. 

It underscored its commitment to patient safety as its foremost priority, emphasizing the stringent standards set by regulatory authorities to ensure the safe utilization of all medications, including vaccines. Moreover, AstraZeneca collaborated with the Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's largest vaccine producer, to facilitate the supply of the vaccine to the Indian government.