Karnataka Refutes Vaccine-Heart Attack Link, Mandates Autopsies

Government-commissioned studies and expert panels in Karnataka and at the national level have found no evidence linking COVID-19 vaccines to sudden cardiac deaths or heart attacks among young adults, refuting speculation and political claims. The observed rise in cardiac events is attributed to traditional risk factors and post-COVID lifestyle changes, not vaccination. Experts highlight that a temporary increase in cardiovascular risk may occur after COVID-19 infection itself, but this effect does not last beyond a year. In response to ongoing concerns, the Karnataka government will classify sudden deaths in individuals under 45 as a notifiable disease and require autopsies to better investigate causes. National and international health authorities continue to affirm the safety of COVID-19 vaccines and warn against vaccine misinformation. The consensus remains that vaccination has been critical in saving lives during the pandemic.