FDA investigating possible adult deaths from COVID vaccines

Published: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 11:41 pm

FDA Investigates Potential Adult Deaths Linked to COVID-19 Vaccines

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is conducting a comprehensive investigation into potential deaths in adults that may be linked to COVID-19 vaccines. This review, which spans multiple age groups, expands upon an earlier safety assessment initially focused on children. The FDA confirmed the investigation in a statement to Bloomberg News.

The investigation comes amid a backdrop of shifting guidance on vaccine safety. While numerous studies have affirmed the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, concerns have been raised by some, including U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These concerns have led to changes in funding for mRNA vaccines, the technology behind the Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 shots.

The pharmaceutical companies, Moderna and Pfizer, have responded to the investigation. Moderna referenced a previous statement emphasizing its rigorous monitoring of vaccine safety in over 90 countries. Pfizer cited its extensive global distribution of over 5 billion doses and its comprehensive safety monitoring.

The investigation follows a leaked internal memo from the FDA's top vaccine regulator, Vinay Prasad, who indicated stricter standards for immunizations. This approach has been criticized by a group of former FDA leaders.

The potential impact of the investigation is significant. Experts like Michael Kinch, a drug development expert, suggest that widening the investigation could erode public trust in vaccine safety. However, it is important to note that COVID-19 vaccinations have been credited with averting millions of deaths globally between 2020 and 2024, with the majority of the benefit seen in older adults.

Reports in medical literature have documented rare instances of deaths potentially related to myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, following COVID-19 vaccination. However, studies have also shown that myocarditis cases are generally mild.

The FDA is also reviewing safety data for RSV shots for infants.

BNN's Perspective:

While it is crucial to thoroughly investigate any potential safety concerns related to vaccines, it is equally important to maintain public trust in the scientific process. The FDA's investigation should be conducted with transparency and a commitment to evidence-based findings. The benefits of vaccination, as demonstrated by the reduction in global mortality, should not be overshadowed by unsubstantiated claims.

Keywords: FDA, COVID-19 vaccines, vaccine safety, adult deaths, investigation, Moderna, Pfizer, myocarditis, vaccine regulation, public health, mRNA vaccines, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Vinay Prasad, RSV shots, vaccine boosters

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