Myocarditis and pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccines
20 December 2021. Related: COVID-19: vaccine research, COVID-19.
Simon Collins, HIV i-Base
A UK government report covers reports of myocarditis and pericarditis following vaccines against COVID-19 and includes guidance for health workers.
By 17 November 2021, there have been 432 and 332 reports respectively following the Pfizer vaccine, equivalent to 10 and 7 cases per million doses. The figures for Moderna are 101 and 57 reports, equivalent to 36 and 21 cases per million doses.
The fewer cases reported following the AstraZeneca vaccine are thought to reflect the expected background rate.
In those aged under 18 years, the reported rate for heart inflammation (myocarditis and pericarditis) is 10 per million doses (first dose or unknown dose) of the Pfizer vaccine. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for use in this age group.
Reference
Gov.UK. Myocarditis and pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination: guidance for healthcare professionals. Guidance. (29 November 2021).
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/myocarditis-and-pericarditis-after-covid-19-vaccination/myocarditis-and-pericarditis-after-covid-19-vaccination-guidance-for-healthcare-professionals