No linkages between Covid vaccine and heart-related deaths: Govt

By | July 2, 2025
COVID vaccine and heart-related deaths safety research in India

Recent concerns over heart-related deaths in India have sparked public anxiety. In response, the Union Health Ministry has firmly stated that there is no scientific link between COVID-19 vaccines and sudden cardiac deaths. This clarification follows a wave of misinformation and speculation, especially on social media.

Political Claims Spark Renewed Debate

The issue resurfaced after Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah suggested a possible link. He referenced two recent deaths in Hassan and hinted at a vaccine connection. The Health Ministry quickly denied these claims. Officials emphasized that no credible evidence supports such theories.

Studies Conducted by Indian Health Bodies

To investigate the claims, India’s leading health agencies conducted in-depth research. These included the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

🧪 Multicentre Study Findings

The most significant research came from a study involving 47 hospitals across 19 states. It focused on sudden, unexplained deaths in people aged 18–45. The study covered the period from October 2021 to March 2023.

Results showed no rise in mortality among vaccinated individuals. In fact, researchers found other common risk factors. These included genetics, post-COVID health complications, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. None were directly tied to COVID vaccination.

Real Causes Behind Cardiac Deaths

Experts have listed several contributing factors for these sudden deaths. These causes include:

  • Post-COVID inflammation: COVID-19 can cause long-term effects on the heart, including myocarditis.
  • Unhealthy habits: The pandemic led to poor lifestyle patterns, such as reduced exercise and increased stress.
  • Genetic conditions: Some people carry hidden heart-related disorders that go undiagnosed for years.
  • Supplements or steroids: Unregulated use of these products can harm the heart, especially among the youth.

The government urges people not to confuse these causes with vaccine side effects.

What About Myocarditis?

There have been rare cases of myocarditis and pericarditis following vaccination in some countries. However, these cases mostly involved mRNA vaccines like Pfizer or Moderna. In India, most people received Covishield or Covaxin, which are not linked to such outcomes.

Health experts also point out that the risk of heart inflammation is higher after a COVID infection than after a vaccine dose. This supports the safety of vaccination even more.

Global Evidence Supports Vaccine Safety

International studies echo India’s findings. Health authorities around the world support the claim that COVID vaccines are safe.

  • The CDC (USA) studied deaths in Oregon. It found no increase in sudden cardiac deaths among vaccinated young adults.
  • The WHO has reviewed data from multiple countries. It continues to recommend vaccines for all age groups.
  • The European Medicines Agency (EMA) also confirmed that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, with benefits outweighing rare side effects.

The Danger of Misinformation

Misinformation can damage public trust. During the pandemic, vaccine fears led to hesitation and avoidable deaths. Now, in a post-pandemic world, such fear can affect broader immunization programs.

The Health Ministry urges leaders and the public to verify facts before sharing claims. Speaking without evidence can weaken confidence in public health systems.

“Unscientific remarks harm our national effort to protect health,” said a senior official.

How to Stay Safe and Informed

Rather than fearing the vaccine, people should:

  • Get regular health check-ups, especially if there’s a family history of heart disease.
  • Maintain a balanced diet, exercise, and avoid stress.
  • Be alert to early signs like chest pain, breathlessness, or dizziness.
  • Avoid unapproved supplements or performance enhancers.

Conclusion

The Indian government and top health experts agree. There is no connection between COVID-19 vaccines and heart-related deaths. Studies prove that vaccines are safe and protect lives. Instead of focusing on unfounded claims, the public should pay attention to real health risks.

Heart health depends on many things. Vaccines are not one of the problems—but they are part of the solution.