Scientists from Yale University have identified a possible new condition linked to mRNA Covid vaccines. The condition, called post-vaccination syndrome (PVS), may last for years after getting vaccines from companies like Pfizer and Moderna.
Some key symptoms include brain fog, trouble with exercise, insomnia, and heart palpitations. Other signs reported by patients include numbness, ringing in the ears, headaches, dizziness, and a burning sensation. Researchers also found that some patients showed changes in their immune cells and had a reactivated dormant virus that causes flu-like symptoms.
Since many of these symptoms existed before Covid, scientists say there is no clear proof yet that they are caused by the vaccine. The study is still in its early stages, and experts emphasize that more research is needed.
Brain fog can make it hard to remember things, find words, or focus on simple tasks. Tinnitus causes constant ringing or buzzing in the ears, and insomnia makes it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Lack of sleep over time can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
Scientists also found that PVS patients may have a reactivated Epstein-Barr virus. This virus is very common, with nine out of ten adults having had it at some point. It usually stays inactive in the body but can reactivate when the immune system is weak.
The Yale team studied 42 patients with PVS and 22 without it between December 2022 and November 2023. Many patients noticed symptoms after their first or second vaccine dose, and some after later doses. PVS patients also had higher levels of Covid spike proteins than those with long Covid.
Experts have mixed views on the findings. Some believe the spike proteins might come from undiagnosed Covid infections rather than vaccines. Others worry that calling it a new syndrome without strong proof could lead to confusion.
The mRNA vaccines have saved millions of lives worldwide, preventing severe Covid cases and ending lockdowns. While rare side effects like myocarditis have been reported, studies suggest that Covid itself poses a higher risk for these conditions than vaccines.
In the UK, over 17,000 people have applied for vaccine injury compensation, but only 194 claims have been approved. In the US, 14,000 claims have been filed, with only 58 found eligible so far. Scientists say more research is needed to fully understand PVS and its causes.