women wearing mask with bandage on arm after vaccineA report released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds to the evidence supporting the safety of COVID-19 vaccines.

The study in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report found no increased risk for non-COVID-19 death among 6.4 million vaccinated individuals compared to 4.6 million unvaccinated individuals. This did not change when looking at age, gender, race, ethnicity, and type of vaccine received.

In fact, vaccinated individuals were slightly less likely to die for reasons other than COVID-19, possibly because vaccinated individuals tend to be healthier than individuals who aren’t vaccinated.

As with any other research, there are areas warranting further study and there are limitations; however, the findings clearly reinforce the safety of all COVID-19 vaccines available in Arizona. 

In addition to being safe, COVID-19 vaccines are free, highly effective, and widely available around Arizona. If you haven’t been vaccinated, I hope this study gives you one more reason to roll up your sleeve and protect yourself, your family, and your community from COVID-19. 

If you have questions about COVID-19 vaccines, I encourage you to visit azhealth.gov/COVID19Vaccines for more information and consult your healthcare provider.