UK Considers Compensation for AstraZeneca Vaccine Injuries

Health Secretary Wes Streeting is exploring a new compensation scheme for individuals claiming to be disabled by the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, amidst growing concerns regarding the inadequacy of the existing Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS). Over 15,000 claims have been filed with VDPS, yet only 188 have received compensation, predominantly related to serious health issues like blood clots and paralysis. Campaigners argue that the VDPS is outdated and not fit for purpose, urging reforms to its eligibility criteria and payout structure. AstraZeneca has acknowledged in court that its vaccine can cause rare but serious side effects, leading to a class action lawsuit from affected families. The proposed bespoke scheme would resemble compensation programs established for other medical scandals, emphasizing the government's obligation to support those injured. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need to adequately address the plight of the vaccine-injured population who were acting on public health directives.