During the meeting, ACIP members
said there is likely a link between the COVID-19 vaccines and myocarditis and pericarditis. But they also suggested the benefits of the vaccine outweighed the risks.
ACIP
estimated that for every 1 million people under age 30 inoculated with mRNA vaccines, over 70,000 cases of COVID-19 would be prevented, along with more than 4,400 hospitalizations and 36 deaths. At most, 160 cases of heart inflammation would occur.
The joint statement emphasized the risk of heart problems from contracting COVID-19 was greater than from the vaccine.
“The facts are clear: This is an extremely rare side effect, and only an exceedingly small number of people will experience it after vaccination," the statement said. "In addition, we know that myocarditis and pericarditis are much more common if you get COVID-19, and the risks to the heart from COVID-19 infection can be more severe.”