4 min readNew DelhiMay 18, 2024 10:23 AM IST
First published on: May 16, 2024 at 03:30 PM IST
A 42-year-old American woman has taken legal action against pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, claiming that her participation in the company’s COVID-19 vaccine trial has left her with permanent disabilities.
According to The Telegraph, Brianne Dressen, a former teacher from Utah, says she developed a severe neurological condition called post vaccine neuropathy, after taking part in a vaccine trial in 2020.
This lawsuit, filed in Utah, marks the first of its kind in the United States, where the AstraZeneca vaccine underwent clinical trials but was never approved for widespread use.
Last month, the British company also came under the spotlight after it admitted in court documents that it’s Covishield vaccine can cause a rare side effect, that can lead to blood clots in the body and a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood.
What is post vaccine neuropathy?
Dr Jagadish Hiremath, public health intellectual explains, “Post vaccine neuropathy refers to nerve damage that occurs after vaccination, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling. This condition can involve both peripheral and central nervous system damage.”
The exact mechanism linking vaccines to neuropathy is not fully understood, he says, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response triggered by the vaccine. The immune system may mistakenly attack the nervous system, leading to inflammation and nerve damage.
Studies, such as those published in the Journal of Neurology and The Lancet, according to Dr Hiremath, have documented cases of post-vaccine neuropathy following various vaccines, including those for influenza and COVID-19. These cases, while rare, highlight the need for ongoing surveillance and research into vaccine side effects.
The exact mechanism linking vaccines to neuropathy is not fully understood. (Source: Freepik)
Symptoms and timeline of post vaccine neuropathy
Common symptoms include severe pins and needles sensations, numbness, tingling, burning pain, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, paralysis. The symptoms can affect various parts of the body, often starting in the extremities and potentially spreading.
Dr Hiremath elaborates, “Symptoms typically begin within days to a few weeks after vaccination. The onset can be acute, with symptoms appearing suddenly and progressing rapidly. In some cases, symptoms may develop gradually over several weeks.”
According to a study in the Annals of Neurology, he informs, most cases of post-vaccine neuropathy occur within the first two weeks post-vaccination, with the severity and duration of symptoms varying among individuals.
Prevalence and contributing factors
Dr Hiremath admits, “Post vaccine neuropathy is considered rare. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) report that the incidence of serious neurological complications following vaccination is extremely low, estimated at less than 1 in 100,000 doses.”
Factors that might contribute to the occurrence of post-vaccine neuropathy include genetic predisposition, pre-existing autoimmune disorders, and individual immune responses. Dr Hiremath cites a study in the Journal of Autoimmunity that suggests that individuals with a history of autoimmune diseases or previous adverse reactions to vaccines may be at higher risk.
“Some vaccines, due to their components and mechanism of action, might have a slightly higher association with neuropathy,” he states.
Treatment and management of post-vaccine neuropathy
Dr Hiremath stresses that early intervention is crucial. “Treatments typically start with pain management, using medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), gabapentin, or pregabalin to alleviate symptoms.”
For severe cases, he says, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response. Rehabilitation through physical therapy can help maintain muscle strength and improve mobility, aiding in recovery and preventing complications.
“Regular follow-ups with a neurologist are essential to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans. Psychological support may also be beneficial, as chronic pain and disability can impact mental health,” he adds.
The exact mechanism linking vaccines to neuropathy is not fully understood. (File photo) 
The exact mechanism linking vaccines to neuropathy is not fully understood. (Source: Freepik)
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