Fact-Check: "The coronavirus vaccine is dangerous"
What We Know
The claim that the coronavirus vaccine is dangerous lacks substantial evidence and is contradicted by numerous studies and reports. The CDC's COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Update from June 2025 indicates that while there have been reports of adverse events, the overall safety profile of the vaccines remains favorable. The report highlights that the benefits of vaccination, particularly in preventing severe illness and hospitalization, significantly outweigh the risks associated with potential side effects.
Furthermore, interim estimates from the CDC regarding the effectiveness of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine show that it provides significant protection against severe outcomes. Specifically, the vaccine was found to be 33% effective against COVID-19-related emergency department visits and 45-46% effective against hospitalizations among older adults (CDC Interim Estimates). This data underscores the vaccine's role in mitigating the impact of COVID-19, rather than posing a danger to public health.
Analysis
The assertion that the coronavirus vaccine is dangerous is not supported by credible scientific evidence. The FDA's safety labeling change regarding myocarditis and pericarditis, particularly in younger males, has been a focal point of concern. However, these events are rare and the FDA continues to endorse vaccination as the benefits in preventing COVID-19 complications far exceed these risks.
Moreover, a comprehensive analysis published in the JAMA Health Forum indicates that COVID-19 vaccinations have saved millions of lives globally. This evidence is critical in evaluating the overall impact of the vaccine on public health. The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their affiliation with reputable organizations such as the CDC and FDA, which are known for their rigorous scientific standards and transparency.
Conversely, many claims about vaccine dangers often stem from anecdotal reports or misinformation circulated on social media, which lack the scientific rigor and peer review that characterize credible health research. Therefore, while it is essential to monitor vaccine safety continuously, the prevailing evidence supports the conclusion that the vaccines are safe and effective.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that the coronavirus vaccine is dangerous is false. Extensive research and data from reputable health organizations demonstrate that the vaccines are safe and effective in preventing severe illness and death from COVID-19. While there are some risks associated with vaccination, they are minimal compared to the benefits of vaccination in controlling the pandemic and saving lives.
Sources
- COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Update_23JUN2025
- Interim Estimates of 2024–2025 COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness
- 2025-2026 COVID-19 Vaccine Formula: Pfizer/BioNTech
- COVID-19 Vaccines (2025-2026 Formula) for Use in the United States
- Covid Vaccine 2025 Update - Data Lab UW Insights
- An Evidence-Based Approach to Covid-19 Vaccination
- COVID-19 Vaccination Saved Lives and This Matters in 2025
- ACIP June 2025: COVID-19 Trends, Vaccine Updates, and Recommendations