Elderly man collapses and dies shortly after receiving COVID-19 vaccine at Javits Center

An elderly man collapsed and died in Manhattan on Sunday morning shortly after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination at the Javits Center, a health official said.

The man, in his 60s, fell as he left the building about 25 minutes after his vaccination, according to a statement from New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker.

“The first indications are that the man has not had any allergic reactions to the vaccine,” Zucker said in his statement.

During a required 15-minute observation period after vaccination, the man did not experience any adverse effects from the jab, Zucker said.

First responders returned help “within seconds” but the man later died at a nearby hospital, according to the health commissioner.

“Public health experts agree that 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.”

Additional reporting by Kenneth Garger