Increased cases of myocarditis and pericarditis have been reported in the U.S. after receipt of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, particularly in adolescents and young adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In guidance issued in late May, CDC indicated that, in most cases, patients have responded well to medications and rest, and their symptoms promptly improved. Reported cases have occurred predominantly in male adolescents and young adults 16 or older. Onset was typically within several days after vaccination, and cases have occurred more often after the second dose than the first. Earlier in May, a work group of CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices discussed that although the rates of reports of myocarditis following vaccination have not differed from expected baseline rates, information about them should be communicated to providers to enhance early recognition and appropriate management. Related media coverage included an article in The New York Times.
CDC continues to recommend vaccination against COVID-19 for everyone 12 and older given the greater risk of other serious complications related to the disease. Clinicians are urged to report all cases of myocarditis and pericarditis post COVID-19 vaccination to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System. Additional recommendations for clinicians are available on CDC’s website.
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