UNICEF in Albania has asked the authorities for information on the number of influenza vaccines administered so far and whether adverse events have occurred.
This information was given to Exit the following questions regarding the influenza vaccine that was made in South Korea by GC Pharma. South Korea has noted a number of deaths in a short period after the vaccines were given. While the Korean government has said there is no link between the vaccine and the deaths, the Korean Medical Association caused for a pause to government immunizations until the cause could be found.
To date, there is zero evidence that there is any link between the vaccines and the deaths.
Albania contacted the Institute of Public Health who refused to divulge the name or brand of the vaccine used. Exit was able to acquire a photo of the vaccine being administered by the state, showing it is made in South Korea by GC Pharma.
The IPH also did not answer any questions on whether the vaccines being brought to Albania were the same as those used in South Korea, or whether any checks were being made. They also did not respond to questions regarding any recorded adverse events following the vaccinations being given. It is however believed that none have been observed.
Instead, they referred questions to the WHO and UNICEF in Albania who they said acquired the vaccines on their behalf.
WHO said they would respond to questions but then stopped replying and did not provide any information.
UNICEF said:
“UNICEF has seen the information circulating in some media, noting as well that so far no case was connected to the flu vaccine. The situation is still under investigation and no final results are available yet.
We are also in contact with our Supply Division in Copenhagen and WHO EURO to find out more about this issue.
At the same time, we are looking for local authorities to have some information on the number of vaccine doses already administered in Albania and whether any Adverse Events Following Immunization ( AEFI) are registered.
We fully understand the concerns surrounding this event, but at this point, we are waiting for confirmation about a batch of vaccines shipped to Albania and batch used in Korea, and the results of the investigation.”
Immunisation against seasonal influenza is an important part of the COVID-19 strategy and all elderly, high risk, and young children should be vaccinated. Others should also take the vaccine as influenza kills hundreds of thousands of people every year.
