COVID-19 vaccination still recommended for youth and young adults despite rare reports of heart inflammation

Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU), along with national and provincial health agencies
are closely monitoring rare reports of potential myocarditis/pericarditis (inflammation of
the lining around the heart) following a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine.

Most cases world-wide have occurred within several days after vaccination, and in teens
and young adult males after receiving the 2nd dose of the vaccine. In Canada, there is
ongoing monitoring for side effects after vaccination and rates of myocarditis/pericarditis
are not higher than would normally be expected in the general population.

“All immunizers at our clinics will share information on this, and all possible side effects
to ensure that consent to vaccination is informed,” says Dr. Kit Young Hoon, Medical
Officer of Health at NWHU.

Most cases reported have had mild illness, responded well to treatment, and symptoms
improved quickly. Emerging evidence on this topic will be followed very closely as
further information is obtained.

“National and provincial guidelines have not changed, and COVID-19 vaccines continue
to be recommended for all eligible individuals, including youth and young adults.
The benefits of the mRNA vaccines continue to outweigh the risks in the authorized
populations, as there are clear benefits of mRNA vaccines in reducing COVID-19
infections” says Dr. Young Hoon.

For more information, please see www.nwhu.on.ca/covid19 or call the NWHU’s hotline
at 1-866-468-2240.

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Media contact:
Dr. Kit Young Hoon
Medical Officer of Health
Northwestern Health Unit
jbegg@nwhu.on.ca