Stroke risk following BNT162b2 vaccination: a systematic review and meta-analysis of self-controlled case series studies.
Expert Rev VaccinesAug 27, 2026 (epub)
Seol Jang, Sung-Inn Pyo, Eun Jin Kim et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis evaluated the stroke risk associated with BNT162b2 vaccination using self-controlled case series studies. It included eight studies from six countries with several million vaccinated individuals. The pooled incidence rate ratio was 0.967, indicating no statistically significant increase in stroke risk following vaccination.
Key findings
- The pooled incidence rate ratio for stroke risk was 0.967 (95% CI 0.892-1.049).
- No significant increase in stroke risk was found across various subgroups, including age and dose category.
- Heterogeneity in results was attributed to methodological differences rather than biological variation.
Why it matters
Understanding the safety profile of vaccines is crucial for public health. This analysis provides reassurance regarding the absence of increased stroke risk following BNT162b2 vaccination, which can inform vaccination strategies and public confidence.