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| - Last Updated on December 10, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that the COVID-19 vaccine increases the risk of heart attacks by 500%. Our fact check reveals this claim is false.
The Claim
A post from the Threads social media platform claims, “Your chance of dying from a heart attack due to that ‘vaccine’… according to their own studies… is 500% greater… than if you were unvaccinated.” The post goes on to describe this as a form of ‘state-sanctioned murder.’
Fact Check
Is there scientific evidence that the vaccine increases the risk of heart attacks by 500%?
No, there is no credible scientific evidence to support the claim that the COVID-19 vaccine increases the risk of heart attacks by 500%. This figure is completely unsubstantiated by any reputable studies or health organisations. The American Heart Association recommends COVID-19 vaccine even to those with heart conditions.
Have any studies shown a higher risk of heart attacks after vaccination?
There have been some reports of heart-related issues following vaccination, such as myocarditis and pericarditis, especially in younger individuals. However, these cases are very rare, and the vaccine does not significantly increase the risk of heart attacks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) closely monitor vaccine safety. Large studies consistently show that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccines far outweigh the potential risks. The risk of severe complications, including heart issues, is much higher from a COVID-19 infection itself compared to the vaccine.
Are myocarditis and heart attacks linked to the COVID-19 vaccine?
Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining) have been reported in some people after receiving COVID-19 vaccines, but these cases are rare. According to the CDC, myocarditis was most often reported after the second dose of mRNA vaccines, particularly in young males aged 12–29 years. The rates were about 41 cases per million doses in males aged 12–29 and 2.4 cases per million in males aged 30 and older. For females, the rates were much lower—4.2 per million for those aged 12–29 and 1 per million for older women. Males aged 12–17 and 18–24 had the highest rates of myocarditis, with 63 and 51 cases per million doses, respectively. Some social media posts have wrongly claimed that the CDC has released a redacted report on vaccine induced myocarditis, which is not true.
Patient leaflets for Pfizer’s Comirnaty and Moderna’s Spikevax vaccines state that myocarditis or pericarditis occurs in up to 1 in 10,000 people. The risk is slightly higher for those under 30, but these cases are typically mild and resolve with treatment.
On the other hand, COVID-19 itself carries a much higher risk of severe heart problems, such as heart attacks, myocarditis, and blood clots. Studies show that people infected with the virus are far more likely to face these complications than those who get vaccinated. However, some people make false claims that the COVID vaccine causes more myocarditis than the virus itself. This is completely untrue.
How does the risk of heart attacks compare between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals?
Vaccinated individuals do not face a significantly higher risk of dying from a heart attack than unvaccinated individuals. In fact, vaccination reduces the likelihood of severe illness, including complications that could lead to heart attacks, in the event of a COVID-19 infection.
A 2024 study showed that vaccinated individuals were far less likely to develop severe complications, including cardiac issues, compared to those who were unvaccinated. This highlights the protective effect of vaccines in reducing the overall risk of heart problems.
Why are such claims misleading?
This claim is misleading and creates unnecessary fear. While no vaccine is completely risk-free, COVID-19 vaccines have been rigorously tested and monitored worldwide, including in India. Rare side effects like myocarditis are far less dangerous than severe COVID-19, which vaccines help prevent. For trustworthy information, rely on sources like India’s Ministry of Health, the ICMR, WHO, or qualified healthcare professionals, rather than sensational claims.
We’ve already debunked some false stories, like the idea that COVID-19 vaccines were part of a military project. Always seek facts from credible sources to make informed health decisions
THIP Media Take
The claim that the COVID-19 vaccine increases the risk of heart attacks by 500% is entirely false. Research confirms COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. They reduce severe illness, and the benefits outweigh rare risks. Studies show COVID-19 causes more heart issues than the vaccine. Trust reliable sources like India’s Ministry of Health, the WHO or ICMR for accurate updates.
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