Is there an association of myocarditis or pericarditis following COVID-19 vaccination?
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Many studies have now shown that there is an increased risk of myocarditis following vaccination with an mRNA vaccine, especially in young men under the age of 40. Although the relative risk differs in different countries probably related to a combination of the genetic background, the different vaccination schedules and how the cases are defined, the risks are higher in subsequent doses compared with the first dose. Many of the studies have only limited follow up, and the long-term consequences of vaccine-associated myocarditis is unclear.
In one of the largest studies published to date on the Israeli experience, over 2 million individuals were assessed. The estimated incidence of myocarditis was 2 per 100,000 individuals, with the highest reported rate in males aged 16 to 29. 76% were classified as mild and 22% intermediate. One case developed cardiogenic shock, and one was readmitted to hospital during the follow up period. Fourteen patients had left ventricular dysfunction on Echocardiogram with 10 of these still having dysfunction at time of discharge (subsequent follow up indicated that 5 of these individuals had normal heart function).