Parents to sue AstraZeneca over Covishield vaccine side effects

New Delhi, May 3: In the wake of AstraZeneca's acknowledgement in court documents regarding the potential for rare side effects associated with the COVID vaccine Covishield, the parents of a young woman who tragically passed away after receiving the vaccine are preparing to take legal action against the pharmaceutical behemoth, media reported.

This development sheds light on the complex legal ramifications surrounding vaccine safety amidst the global vaccination drive.

Venugopal Govindan, who lost his 20-year-old daughter, Karunga, in 2021, attributes her untimely demise to purported complications stemming from the Covishield vaccination. Expressing his grief and seeking accountability, Govindan took to the microblogging platform X to voice his concerns, emphasizing the responsibility of both AstraZeneca and its Indian manufacturer, Serum Institute.

Govindan's sentiments reflect a broader sentiment among individuals impacted by adverse vaccine reactions, urging for greater transparency and accountability from pharmaceutical companies. The decision to pursue legal recourse underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for clarity regarding vaccine safety protocols.

The timing of these legal proceedings coincides with heightened scrutiny surrounding vaccine safety, particularly in light of reports highlighting rare side effects associated with certain COVID-19 vaccines.

Govindan's assertion that AstraZeneca and Serum Institute should have taken proactive measures in response to concerns raised by European countries underscores the importance of swift and decisive action in safeguarding public health.