Professor Karina Butler:

Yes, that is absolutely correct. The AstraZeneca vaccine is authorised for use across all ages from 18. It was also noted by the EMA, as the Deputy states, that there was a warning with regard to its use and the risk of these very rare, atypical clotting incidents that are quite severe and carry approximately a 22% to 30% mortality rate. They are a side-effect of very high consequence. It was also noted by the EMA that each country would make their own guidance, taking into account the local pandemic position and the availability of other mitigating strategies, including alternate vaccines.