The Claim:
A video is recirculating, spreading fear about COVID vaccines based on one adolescent’s medical experiences while participating in the clinical trial program.
The Facts:
Unfortunately, the family has provided very little in terms of evidence about this teenager’s adverse event. The doctors caring for her have pointed to a possible functional neurological disorder, a diagnosis the family rejects.
Functional neurological disorder (formerly called conversion disorder) is a condition where a person experiences physical symptoms like blindness, paralysis, or numbness that doctors can’t explain through medical tests. These symptoms can happen because of inner emotional conflicts. They often start suddenly after a stressful event. People at risk of this disorder might have other medical or mental health issues.
Immunization Stress-Related Responses (known as ISRR) have been noted in various cultures historically, mostly among children and teenagers. These reactions are affected by social elements like the extent to which vaccination programs are covered in the media. And certainly, COVID vaccination and supposed adverse reactions were common during the early days of the vaccination program.
People with this disorder aren’t faking or intentionally hurting themselves. Some doctors mistakenly think it’s not a real problem, but it is real and distressing. The physical symptoms might be a way for the person to cope with their emotional conflicts.
Disclaimer: Science is always evolving and our understanding of these topics may have evolved since this was originally posted. Browse the latest information posted in Just the Facts Topics.
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