COVID-19 vaccination safer for kids than infection
Study of 14M kids shows COVID-19 infection raises heart risks more than vaccination.
Why it matters
- Vaccination against COVID-19 is safer for children than infection.
- Study involved nearly 14 million children, making it the largest of its kind.
By the numbers
- 17 extra cases per 100,000 of inflammatory conditions after infection.
- 2 fewer cases per 100,000 of inflammatory conditions after vaccination.
The big picture
- Risks of serious but rare side effects like heart inflammation and blood clots are higher after infection than vaccination.
- Study has limitations, including lack of data on recovery from complications and milder cases.
What they're saying
- Experts note findings might not apply to current virus strains.
- More studies needed as immune responses may differ with new strains and boosters.
Caveats
- Data does not show if children with complications recovered fully.
- Many milder cases may not have been formally diagnosed.
What’s next
- Continued research needed to understand effects of current virus strains and boosters.