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| - Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that Yale’s study confirmed long-term symptoms and spike protein presence after COVID-19 vaccination. Our fact check investigation reveals that this claim is mostly false.
The Claim
A Facebook post claims that a Yale study has proven the existence of a “post-vaccination syndrome” (PVS) with long-lasting symptoms, persistent spike protein for over 700 days, and specific immunological changes, all directly caused by COVID-19 vaccines.
Fact Check
Does Yale’s Study prove vaccines cause long-term illness?
Not definitively. The Yale study, which is a “pre-print” and not yet fully reviewed by other scientists, found that people reporting long-term symptoms after COVID-19 vaccines had some differences in their blood compared to those without symptoms. For example, they saw changes in immune cells and, in some, the presence of spike protein. However, the study involved only 42 participants reporting symptoms and 22 healthy controls, which is a small sample size. It also only looked at their blood at one point in time (cross-sectional study), and some participants had fewer vaccine doses than others, which complicates the results. This means we still can’t say for sure that the vaccines caused these symptoms. The study highlights the need for more research with larger groups and longer periods of time to better understand these findings.
Similarly, another post claims that Pfizer published an official list of COVID-19 vaccine side effects. However, this is also misleading.
Did Yale’s study officially name a new medical condition, “post-vaccination syndrome” (PVS)?
No, this is misleading. Yale researchers are studying reported symptoms after vaccination, but they haven’t officially named a new medical condition. The term “syndrome” means a group of symptoms, and they are investigating these symptoms, not confirming a new, officially recognised disease. The study aims to understand what’s happening, not to declare a new illness.
Does the study prove that spike protein stays in the body for 700+ days and directly causes long-term health problems?
Yes, but partially. The study found spike protein in some people’s blood up to 700 days after their vaccinations. However, not everyone with reported symptoms had detectable spike protein. Furthermore, the study indicates that finding spike protein does not automatically mean it causes their symptoms, or explain all symptoms seen. The duration and clinical significance of its persistence are still being researched.
Are the reported symptoms, like fatigue and brain fog, definitively proven to be caused by the COVID-19 vaccines in this study?
No, this is misleading. The study examines people who reported these symptoms after vaccination, but it does not prove that vaccines are the direct cause. These symptoms are common in many health conditions. The study aims to identify patterns in the body that might explain these symptoms, but it does not claim that the vaccine is the sole cause.
Did the study find clear, proven changes in the immune system caused by the vaccines?
Maybe, but it’s not conclusive. The researchers found differences in blood samples between people with and without reported symptoms, including changes in certain immune cells. However, they have stated that further studies are needed to confirm these changes and understand their significance.
What are the known and proven side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
COVID-19 vaccines, like all vaccines, can cause side effects. Most are mild and go away within a few days. Common side effects include:
Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
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Feeling tired.
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Headache.
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Muscle aches.
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Fever or chills.
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These are signs that the body is building protection.
In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur. For example, some people have experienced allergic reactions or, very rarely, heart inflammation (myocarditis), particularly in young men. These serious side effects are rare, and health authorities constantly monitor vaccine safety.
It’s important to know that the benefits of getting vaccinated against COVID-19, which include preventing severe illness, hospitalisation, and death, far outweigh the risks of these rare side effects. Despite this, misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines remains widespread. For example, we previously debunked the claim that they increase the risk of heart attacks by 500%.
If you have concerns about vaccine side effects, it’s always best to talk to your doctor.
THIP Media Take
The claim that Yale’s study confirmed long-term symptoms and spike protein presence after COVID-19 vaccination is mostly false. The Facebook post exaggerates the findings of the Yale study. The study is an early investigation into reported symptoms after COVID-19 vaccination, not a confirmation of a new disease or direct causation. While the study found some interesting clues, we need more research to understand the connection between vaccines and long-term symptoms.
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