California’s top epidemiologist, Dr. Erica Pane said late Wednesday night that a review of clear allergic reactions by an expert panel is believed to be linked to a specific part of the modern COVID-19 vaccine, which found “no scientific basis” for continuing to withhold doses.
The state received approximately 330,000 doses of Moderna vaccine from a specific lot, which were distributed throughout the state. Last week, seven people at the Drive Through Clinic in San Diego experienced reactions, some of which involved rapid swelling. There were no anaphylaxis or fatal reactions, according to the Western States Scientific Safety Review Working Group.
Although the symptoms were severe, medical help was needed, Page said.
He added: “With great caution,” the state recommended healthcare providers stop distributing certain flours until its safety review is completed on Sunday. The working group said in a statement on Wednesday that a number of people across the country had recommended getting the vaccine from the same flour without a similar reaction as well as resuming providers using doses according to the immediate need for vaccination during an epidemic.
“These findings should continue to reassure California that vaccines are safe and effective, and that systems are in place to ensure that vaccine safety is rigorous and scientifically based.”
The workgroup did not identify the cause of the “higher than usual” reactions in San Diego. All of the individuals who responded were “homely and well,” Pan said.
The COVID-19 vaccine contains specific guidelines when administering inoculation, including monitoring patients for at least 15 minutes after dosing. The observation period is longer for people with fixed-term medical conditions.
