Health Minister Chen Shih-chung has reassured the public that the sudden death of people soon after getting vaccinated is not directly related to COVID-19 vaccines.
More than 100 people died within a few days after receiving AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines. Most of them were senior citizens with chronic illnesses.
The Central Epidemic Command Center said on Tuesday that autopsies have been carried out on 16 bodies. Autopsy results found that 15 died of cardiovascular disease and one choked to death.
Health authorities said the death rate among those aged 75 or over after getting jabbed is about the same as other countries. They also said old age does not pose a higher risk for getting vaccinated.
Last Friday, Health Minister Chen Shih-chung said 1.42 vaccinated people died per 10,000 in South Korea as opposed to 0.87 in Taiwan. Chen said there is no major difference when comparing the death rate with other countries.
Chen however suggests that those with unstable health conditions should consult their doctor and perhaps get vaccinated later.