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| - Last Updated on September 2, 2024 by Nivedita
Quick Take
A social media post claimed that the Pfizer vaccine causes Mycoplasma Pneumonia. Also, that this vaccine is responsible for spreading this pneumonia among children in China. However, our fact-checking process revealed that this claim is Mostly False.
The Claim
A social media post alleges that the pneumonia outbreak in China is due to Mycoplasma pneumonia, and that this has been documented as an adverse reaction in Pfizer’s records. A screenshot of the post is available below for your reference.
During our search, we encountered several claims on social media discussing the potential impact of Pfizer vaccine on heart and brain health, sperm count, and its potential harm to pregnant mothers. We have carefully reviewed and verified these assertions to ensure their accuracy.
Fact Check
What is Mycoplasma pneumonia?
Mycoplasma pneumonia, also known as ‘atypical pneumonia’ is a respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This bacterium is unique due to its lack of a cell wall, which sets it apart from other forms of bacteria. Mycoplasma pneumonia is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and is an atypical pathogen.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections commonly occur in community settings and can impact both children and adults. This bacterium has the ability to cause infections in both the upper and lower respiratory tracts with a range of clinical features. These can vary from mild upper respiratory tract infections to more severe lower respiratory tract infections. Symptoms typically include a gradual onset of cough, fever, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, and the condition is known for its prolonged and insidious course.
Treatment generally involves antibiotics, such as macrolides or tetracyclines. The choice of medication may depend on factors like age and the severity of the infection. While mycoplasma pneumonia is usually a self-limiting condition, severe cases may require medical intervention. Therefore, it is essential to recognise the symptoms and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management. This becomes more important especially when considering the potential impact on both upper and lower respiratory health.
Is the Pfizer vaccine capable of causing Mycoplasma pneumonia?
Not exactly. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), this assertion surfaced in mid-October following an elevation in flu-like illnesses, including mycoplasma pneumonia, among children in China. Notably, the Pfizer document referencing Mycoplasma pneumonia is found in the appendix on page 36, categorised under ‘adverse events of special interest.’ The WHO safety surveillance manual for COVID 19 vaccines defines these events as conditions with the potential for a ‘causal association’ with a vaccine, necessitating vigilant monitoring and validation through further studies.
Dr. Sumit Aggarwal, Scientist (D) and Programme Officer in the Division of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at ICMR, New Delhi, suggests that there is no link. Sir explains that the Pfizer document does not include mycoplasma pneumonia as a recognised side effect of the vaccine. The document outlines medical conditions observed and to be monitored after the administration of other vaccines. But no causal link has been established with Pfizer’s COVID shot.
Furthermore, our research yielded no evidence or medical literature supporting the notion that the Pfizer vaccine can induce Mycoplasma pneumonia. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacterium responsible for respiratory tract infections. There is no evidence indicating a connection between the development of these infections and vaccines, including Pfizer’s. As a result, it is imperative to consult healthcare professionals and refer to scientific literature for accurate information regarding vaccine safety and potential health implications.
A false social media post says that the World Health Organization has said that the COVID-19 vaccine causes multiple sclerosis.
Can Pfizer COVID-19 cause adverse effects?
There could be a possibility. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine utilises mRNA technology, a groundbreaking method of vaccination. This technology involves introducing a fragment of the virus’s genetic material into cells, which in turn triggers the production of a spike protein. The immune system recognises this protein as foreign and mounts a robust defense. The use of mRNA enables a rapid and targeted immune response, thereby increasing its effectiveness against severe SARS-CoV-2 infections.
The Pfizer mRNA vaccine may cause common side effects such as pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, fever, chills, muscle pain, and joint pain. These side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Serious adverse events are uncommon, with a study indicating a low risk and reporting symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue, pain, swelling at the injection site, muscle pain, and joint pain.
Despite the mild and transient side effects, the vaccine offers significant benefits in preventing severe COVID-19 outcomes. These reactions should be viewed as the body’s immune response, and the vaccine is well-regarded for its safety. Hence, it is advisable for individuals to consult healthcare professionals for comprehensive information on vaccine safety and associated side effects.
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