Siddaramaiah Raises Concerns Over Hasty Covid Vaccine Approval and Heart Attack Deaths

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has expressed concerns over the recent heart attack fatalities in Hassan, Karnataka. He suggested that the rapid approval and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine might be linked to these deaths. Siddaramaiah advised individuals experiencing symptoms like chest pain or breathing difficulties to seek immediate medical attention.

More than twenty people have died from heart attacks in Hassan district alone over the past month. The state government is treating this issue with utmost seriousness. To uncover the cause of these deaths, a committee led by Dr. Ravindranath from Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research has been tasked with submitting a report within 10 days.

COVID Vaccine Concerns

Siddaramaiah highlighted that orders were previously given in February for a comprehensive study on sudden deaths among young people in the state. This study aims to determine if COVID vaccines have had any adverse effects. The examination of heart patients is ongoing as part of this investigation.

The Chief Minister criticised BJP leaders for allegedly exploiting this situation for political gain. He mentioned that several global studies have suggested a possible link between COVID vaccines and increased heart attacks. Before criticising, BJP should reflect on their actions, he added.

Government Initiatives

The state government is committed to identifying the true cause behind these deaths and preventing them. Initiatives like Hridaya Jyothi and Gruha Arogya have been implemented to monitor public health. Based on the expert committee's findings, further actions will be taken to safeguard people's health.

A district-level committee has also been formed to verify each reported heart attack death case in the media. This committee will work with Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences under Dr. Ravindranath's guidance to submit a report within 10 days.

Health Department's Role

Health Minister Dinesh Gundo Rao stated that Dr. Ravindranath's committee will conduct an audit and gather necessary information about these deaths. They will check for any abnormalities or variations beyond medical reasons. A scientific analysis will be conducted once the report is ready, and decisions will be made accordingly.

The health department reported that among the heart attack deaths in Hassan, four were aged 20 years and below, one was aged 21-29 years, five were aged 30-40 years, seven were aged 41-59 years, and one was above 60 years old.

With inputs from PTI