Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the announcement by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency that stated the benefits of the vaccines outweigh the risks in the majority of people, what steps his Department is taking to help provide reassurance to people who may be concerned that they are in the minority where the risk of covid-19 vaccines outweigh the benefits.

Communications regarding COVID-19 vaccination include national awareness campaigns such as ‘Every Vaccine Gives Us Hope’ and ‘Get Boosted Now’ alongside tailored activity for specific groups such as young people and pregnant women. We are also working with local communities and leaders, as well regular providing information materials translated into 28 different languages.

Health professionals can also provide advice for individuals regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. As with all vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccinations have been authorised by the independent regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for effectiveness, safety and quality. The MHRA’s Yellow Card Reporting Scheme allows healthcare professionals and the public to report any suspected side effects following the administration of a medicine. This allows the MHRA to monitor the vaccines and respond to concerns identified, if appropriate. The UK Health Security Agency continuously monitors the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines using its existing surveillance systems and studies as well as new enhanced resources.

For those unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccine or for whom vaccination is less effective, antiviral treatments are also available to provide an additional line of defence. Those whose immune system means they are at higher risk from COVID-19 who test positive for the virus can directly access COVID-19 treatments, through COVID Medicine Delivery Units.