COVID NYC: Man dies after vaccine at Javits Center; not believed to be reaction

NEW YORK (WABC) – A man passed out and died after leaving the Javits Center vaccination site in New York City, but health officials say it is not believed to be due to an allergic reaction.

The New York State Health Commissioner confirmed that this happened about 25 minutes after the individual was vaccinated and after the required 15-minute observation period.

Dr. Howard Zucker said the initial indications are that the man, who was in his 70s, did not have an allergic reaction to the vaccine.

RELATED: When New Yorkers with Ill Health Can Begin Appointments for COVID Vaccines

Local security and first aid reached the man in seconds, but he died shortly afterwards in a hospital.

Health officials say it is important to note that just because someone died, it does not mean it is related to the vaccine.

“Public health experts agree that the vaccine is safe and, along with continued surveillance, including wearing a mask and social detachment, will end the pandemic,” said Zucker. “I encourage all eligible New Yorkers to be vaccinated.”

The Javits Center opened as a vaccine mega-site in early January.

TRENDS: Security warning for TikTok users revealing everything in the silhouette challenge

subscription to the national geographic newsletter

MORE CORONAVIRUS COVID-19 COVERAGE

COVID-19 positive cases by postal code – New York City

New York COVID-19 vaccine tracker
New Jersey COVID-19 vaccine tracker
Find out if you are eligible and where you can go to get your vaccine
Do you have symptoms of coronavirus?

Where to take the test in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut
WATCH: Eyewitness to a Pandemic
Centers for the control and prevention of coronavirus diseases

Submit a news tip or question

Copyright © 2021 WABC-TV. All rights reserved.

.Source