Only 96 people have experienced mild or severe reactions to Covid-19 vaccines out of the more than 5 million jabs that have been administered in Zimbabwe since the mass inoculation programme began in March.

Authorities are investigating two deaths that have been linked to adverse reactions to the vaccines, while two other suspected cases of death following vaccination have been deemed coincidental.

Experts found no evidence to conclude that the deaths were caused by vaccines.According to the Medicine Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ), the most common cases of Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI) included headaches, dizziness and fatigue among other non-serious episodes of discomfort.

Health experts define an adverse effect as serious when it results in hospitalisation, extended stay in hospital, a significant reduction in functional capacity, or death.

MCAZ projects and public relations officer, Mr Shingai Gwatidzo, said the majority of those with suspected AEFIs have recovered.“Out of a cumulative total of 3,06 million first dose and 2,30 million second dose of Covid-19 vaccines, the authority received a total of 96 suspected cases AEFIs,” he said.

-State Media