Barbara. I don't think it's every been said that there are no side effects. Vaccines force the immune system to generate protection against (in this instance a Sars type) virus so there may be some symptoms while the immune system reacts. However, these are normally temporary, fairly minor and have no serious lasting effects. There have been a very small number of fatal reactions arising from blood clots after AZ vaccinations but the risk of blood clotting and death appears to be far, far greater from the Covid virus itself. Yes, there is a need for continuous research, monitoring and reporting of anomalies as with other vaccines (flu, smallpox, tetanus, etc) and I heard that this has identified the likely cause of the AZ clots which, hopefully, they should be able to rectify now. Nothing's zero risk; we all cross the road knowing we might get run over but we can minimise that risk by using a controlled crossing. Looking at the relative risks I'll go with the vaccine rather than risk infection from the virus, particularly if I can continue leading my life close to normal: going tpo the theatre and concerts, socialising with friends, meeting ex-colleagues, attending business and astronomy conferences and seminars, and travelling ...it would be sad to not do that and then get run over by the proverbial bus ... or more likely a pizza delivery scooter in Putney! Still, you've got to make your own decision.
Michael Ixer ● 1291d