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WHO Europe director Hans Kluge insisted the benefits of the Oxford jab outweighs the risk of side-effects. As many as 17 EU countries have halted their rollout of the immunisation over concerns that it has caused blood clots in people who have received it. Dr Kluge said: “Benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh any risks and its use should continue to save lives.”<\/p>\n
The WHO chief added: “As of now, we do not know whether some or all of the conditions have been caused by the vaccine or by other coincidental factors.”<\/p>\n
His remarks echo that of the EU’s medical regulator the EMA, which has also backed the use of AstraZeneca jabs to save lives and stall the spread of coronavirus.<\/p>\n
Despite the guidance, a majority of EU countries have maintained their ban on the use of the Oxford-produced shot.<\/p>\n
The EMA is today due to publish new advice urging European capitals to U-turn on the suspension.<\/p>\n
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Emer Cooke, director of the EMA, this week said: “I am convinced that the benefits of this particular vaccine outweigh the risks.”<\/p>\n
Germany has led the mass revolt against the AstraZeneca vaccine, with support from the likes of France, Italy, Spain and Ireland.<\/p>\n
All eyes will be on Berlin to climbdown if the EMA concluded the jab is safe.<\/p>\n
Many smaller member states felt pressurised by Berlin and eventually followed suit with their own suspensions.<\/p>\n