The Department of Health (DOH) said that there is no reason to believe that the incident in Isabela was caused by the vaccine.
The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Cagayan Valley, in a statement, said there is no reason to believe that the death of the midwife in Isabela was caused by the vaccine.
Elvira Estera, a municipal midwife at the Rural Health Unit (RHU) in San Mateo, Isabela, was found to be positive of COVID-19 after she received her first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine. Estera died 13 days after she received her first dose.
“Every adverse event following immunization (AEFI) is reviewed carefully, and RAEFIC (Regional Adverse Event Following Immunization Committee) and NAEFIC (National Adverse Event Following Immunization Committee) are currently conducting a comprehensive causality assessment. Results of the assessment will be released to the public when the process if complete,” the statement read.
Evidence shows that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination continue to outweigh the risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. The DOH advises that all eligible priority groups continue to be vaccinated. “We recognize that many people are eager to be vaccinated and protect themselves and their loved ones against COVID-19. It is important to honor the priority groups in the rollout of vaccines throughout the country.”
Vaccination sites are also reminded to conduct thorough symptom and exposure screening. Potential vaccinees are also called on to be fully transparent when being assessed for history of exposure to COVID-19 for their own protection.
Moreover, the DOH reiterates that even after getting vaccinated with the first dose, it will take about three weeks before getting partial protection. “When you get your second dose, you may still be contagious to other people. This is why it is still important for vaccinated individuals to continue practicing MPHS (minimum public health standards) strictly and consistently.”
DOH Undersecretary and Spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire said that they are aware already of the situation, which she called “unfortunate,” and still reminds everyone that COVID-19 vaccine cannot cause COVID-19 infection.