COVID NYC: Man dies after being vaccinated at Javits Center; not considered a reaction

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) – A man collapsed and later died after leaving the Javits Center vaccination site in New York City, but health officials say it was not due to an allergic reaction.

The New York State Health Commissioner confirmed that this occurred approximately 25 minutes after the individual was vaccinated and after the required 15-minute observation period.

Dr Howard Zucker said the first indications are that the man, who was in his 60s, did not have an allergic reaction to the vaccine.

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On-site security and first responders arrived at the man within seconds, but he died shortly after in a hospital.

Health officials say it’s important to note that just because someone has died doesn’t mean it’s related to the vaccine.

“Public health experts agree the vaccine is safe and, combined with continued vigilance, including mask wearing and social distancing, it will end this pandemic,” Zucker said. “I encourage all eligible New Yorkers to get vaccinated.”

The Javits Center opened as a mega vaccination site in early January.

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