Bristol’s mayor has “strongly urged” people to have the AstraZeneca/Oxford coronavirus vaccine despite fears it causes blood clots.
Several countries have suspended its use but Marvin Rees says international health authorities have now concluded it is safe.
Mr Rees spoke out in support of the Covid-19 jab during his monthly Facebook Live on Wednesday evening (March 18) after resident Helena Xarrie said had received the first dose but was “scared” to get the second.
The mayor said: “I understand recent news may have been alarming.
“We were talking to members of my public health team today, saying what has gone on is not helpful.
“But the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has since said there is no indication AsrtraZeneca vaccine is unsafe and there is no evidence it is linked to blood clots.
“Blood clots in people who have had the vaccine is no greater than the ratio of the general population, and the World Health Organisation has also urged countries not to delay delivery of the vaccine.
“So I would strongly urge people to take the vaccine when it’s offered to them.
“It’s the most powerful tool we have in protecting ourselves and our society against the threat of Covid.”
Stay in touch: Get the biggest stories from across Bristol straight to your inbox
The EMA has said it is “firmly convinced” the benefits of the jab outweigh the risks and that there is “no indication” it is the cause of blood clots in some recipients.
The UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency also says it is safe.
