Studies confirm no link between COVID-19 vaccines and sudden deaths in young adults

Two major studies by India’s top medical research bodies have confirmed that there is no connection between COVID-19 vaccination and sudden deaths reported among young adults in the country. The studies were conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), with support from AIIMS, New Delhi.

The studies come amid public concern over several reports of sudden deaths, especially among people aged between 18 and 45 years. Many people on social media and in public conversations had questioned whether COVID-19 vaccines might be responsible. But the findings from these government-backed studies now offer clear answers.

The first study was carried out by ICMR’s National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE) and titled “Factors associated with unexplained sudden deaths among adults aged 18–45 years in India.” It was conducted from May to August 2023 across 47 hospitals in 19 states and Union Territories.

This study looked at young adults who seemed healthy but died suddenly between October 2021 and March 2023. The study compared these cases with similar healthy individuals who were still alive. The conclusion was very clear: COVID-19 vaccination does not increase the risk of unexplained sudden death in young people.

The second ongoing study is being done by AIIMS, New Delhi, with funding and support from ICMR. This study is titled “Establishing the cause in sudden unexplained deaths in young.” It is a prospective study, meaning it looks at cases as they happen, in real-time.

Early data from the AIIMS study shows that heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) are the leading cause of sudden deaths in young adults. Other causes include genetic factors, lifestyle habits, pre-existing health conditions, and complications after COVID-19 infection. Importantly, this study also found no major changes in the pattern of causes compared to earlier years.

Based on these findings, experts from ICMR and NCDC have firmly stated that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Serious side effects from the vaccines are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.

They have also warned against spreading false or misleading information that links vaccines to sudden deaths without scientific proof. Such misinformation could undermine public trust in vaccines, which played a vital role in saving lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Statements that connect COVID-19 vaccines with sudden deaths are not supported by any scientific evidence," said a senior health official. "These kinds of rumors are harmful and could lead to vaccine hesitancy, which is dangerous for public health."

Both studies found that lifestyle choices, like poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol, and stress, along with pre-existing medical conditions such as undiagnosed heart disease, are major contributors to sudden deaths.

In several cases, genetic mutations were also found to play a role, making certain individuals more vulnerable to sudden cardiac events. These findings show the need for early health check-ups, awareness of family medical history, and adopting healthier habits.

The Government of India has said it remains fully committed to scientific, evidence-based research. Officials have assured the public that all vaccine-related safety concerns will be addressed through transparent studies and regular monitoring.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare urged citizens not to believe or share unverified information, especially on social media. “Let science guide us, not fear or rumors,” the ministry said in a statement.