The physicians comprising the Massachusetts Medical Society and the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics remain confident in the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
Yesterday’s meeting of the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) demonstrated the agency’s and all associated stakeholders’ continued and unwavering commitment to patient safety and transparency.
The CDC’s review of recent safety data was the latest example of the scientific process working optimally. Although instances of heart inflammation are incredibly rare – the CDC reports 389 cases of myocarditis or pericarditis in 12- to 24-year-olds,
while nearly 21 million people in this age group have received a COVID-19 vaccine - the issue warranted and received rigorous scientific study. After review of the latest information available, it was clear that the benefits of vaccination in this
age group far outweigh the small risk of this very rare side effect. For those who do experience inflammation of the heart or surrounding tissue, most cases are mild, and recovery is short and often with minimal or no treatment. The risk to the heart
from COVID-19 infection itself is far greater.
The progress that has been made in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in the last few months can be attributed to the efficacy of the vaccines. The disease, however, remains a significant threat to those who are unvaccinated, and we believe the risk of
side effects are vastly outweighed by the benefit of vaccination.
We strongly urge all who are now eligible to get vaccinated at their earliest convenience. Those who have questions about the vaccines are encouraged to start a conversation with their physician or health care provider, and anyone with concerning symptoms
following vaccination should seek medical care.
-Carole E. Allen, MD, MBA, FAAP, President, Massachusetts Medical Society
-Lloyd Fisher, MD, FAAP, President, Massachusetts Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics
