New Brunswick Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jennifer Russell anounced the death of a New Brunswicker, age 60-69, who experienced a rare blood clot associated with low platelets known as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), following vaccination with the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

“I offer my sincere condolences to the bereaved family and friends,” said Dr. Russell at a press conference in Fredericton. “Out of the hundreds of thousands of doses of AstraZeneca vaccine administered as part of the country’s massive vaccination campaign, there will be rare cases where thrombosis will occur. However, the risks remain minimal compared to the risks, complications and potential consequences of COVID-19.”

“On behalf of all New Brunswickers, I extend heartfelt sympathies to the loved ones of this person,” said Health Minister Dorothy Shephard who also participated in the press conference. “While this death is truly tragic, it is important to remember that the risks of dying from COVID-19 are far greater than the risks associated with receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine. I encourage everyone who is eligible to listen to the advice of Public Health and get vaccinated.”

This is the first death of a New Brunswicker as a result of a rare blood clot following the AstraZeneca vaccine. The person received the AstraZeneca vaccine in mid-April and developed symptoms seven days later. They went to an emergency room for treatment and died two days later in hospital. Dr. Russell says the likelihood of developing a blood clot from having COVID-19 in far greater than the risk associated with developing a blood clot from the AstraZeneca vaccine.