Popular posts falsely claim that COVID-19 vaccines contain graphene oxide

A popular Spanish-language social media user claims that a court in Almería, Spain, is launching an investigation into the possible presence of a “toxic compound” in COVID-19 vaccines. The user posted a screenshot from a website that falsely claims that a professor from the University of Almería found graphene oxide in COVID-19 vaccines. Another user also made those claims in a popular video. 

Risk level: Low

Recommendation: False claims that COVID-19 vaccines are unsafe or contaminated have endured since the vaccines were first developed. These types of posts may discourage Spanish-speaking patients from getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The claim that the University of Almería published a study that found graphene oxide in COVID-19 vaccines has already been debunked, and the FDA has also confirmed that Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine does not contain graphene oxide. Messaging may emphasize that COVID-19 vaccine ingredients have been determined to be safe. The CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, because staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines helps prevent severe illness, hospitalization, death, and long COVID.