Public Health has confirmed the death of a New Brunswicker in their 60s who experienced a rare blood clot following vaccination with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.
They say the individual experienced a rare blood clot associated with low platelets known as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT).
“On behalf of all New Brunswickers, I extend heartfelt sympathies to the loved ones of this person,” said Health Minister Dorothy Shephard. “While this death is truly tragic, it is important to remember that the risks of dying from COVID-19 are far greater than the risks associated with receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine. I encourage everyone who is eligible to listen to the advice of Public Health and get vaccinated.”
The person received the AstraZeneca vaccine in mid-April and developed symptoms seven days later. They died in hospital two later.
“I offer my sincere condolences to the bereaved family and friends,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health. “Out of the hundreds of thousands of doses of AstraZeneca vaccine administered as part of the country’s massive vaccination campaign, there will be rare cases where thrombosis will occur. However, the risks remain minimal compared to the risks, complications and potential consequences of COVID-19.”
This is the second confirmed case in the province of rare blood clots with low platelets following vaccination.
Dr. Russell said they plan to keep using the AstraZeneca vaccine with “care and attention”.
“The risk is not zero using it in people aged 55 and over but the information that we have to this date is that the benefits outweigh those risks and we will continue to evaluate the situation,” Russell said.
Health Minister Dorothy Shephard noted the success the United Kingdom has had with the AstraZeneca vaccine adding it remains an option for use in New Brunswick.
44,000 doses of AstraZeneca have been administered in the province.
Health Minister Dorothy Shephard said 38 per cent of the provincial population have had at least one dose of a vaccine.
“Yesterday. we announced that people 50 years and older as well as those 16 and older with two chronic conditions are now eligible to make an appointment to be vaccinated. Overnight, we had more than 10,000 people register to be vaccinated. This is a one day record,” Shephard said.
With files from Tara Clow.
