FDA Links 10 Child Deaths to COVID-19 Vaccines, Enhances Monitoring Measures

The New York Times reported in its Friday edition on an internal memo from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stating that at least 10 children are likely to have died "due to" COVID-19 vaccines, with myocarditis mentioned as a possible cause.

According to the newspaper, the memo authored by Dr. Vinay Prasad, the FDA's chief medical and scientific officer, did not disclose the ages of the deceased children or any pre-existing conditions, nor did it specify the vaccine manufacturers involved.

The New York Times quoted Dr. Prasad stating that these findings represent "a profound revelation," while announcing plans to intensify vaccine monitoring, including the "need for randomized studies across all groups."

This revelation comes at a time when U.S. vaccination policy is undergoing significant changes, as Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. has revised official recommendations to limit vaccine access to the most vulnerable groups, specifically individuals over 65 and those with existing health conditions.

It is noteworthy that the Health Secretary has been a long-time critic of vaccines before taking office, known for linking vaccines to autism and reshaping national vaccination policy.

On the other hand, the newspaper reported that the vaccine committee of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is scheduled to meet in the coming days to discuss these developments.

In this context, Dr. Vinay Prasad, an oncologist, has been one of the most vocal critics of vaccine mandates and mask requirements in the United States. He resumed his role as the FDA's chief medical and scientific officer last September, advising the commissioner and senior officials on emerging medical and scientific issues.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which includes the FDA, did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on this report at the time of publication.