Bill Harvey: You’re in suspension

In yet another week of variously misleading news reporting, we all heard about some quite frightening links between the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and a rare form of blood clotting disease. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), accompanied by a low platelet count, has been associated with the vaccine and reports suggest a higher risk among young and middle-aged women. Sadly, all too few reported the risk in context by comparing with the risks of Covid-19 disease itself, the lack of confirmation of a causal link, and a reminder of the levels of risks associated with all medicines.

I suggest it become compulsory for all eye health professionals carry the information leaflet found in packs of aspirin with them at all times. We will then be ready to contextualise any new associations as they come to light. Judging by recent meetings with students and trainees, there is still some significant ‘vaccine worry’ amongst our younger colleagues. And if information-giving is not enough for you, I hope you enjoy this week’s CET; it may inspire some of you to join the army of ECP vaccinators helping to resolve the current crisis.