Spanish-language posts resurface misleading claims about COVID-19 vaccine side effects

Several Spanish-language social media users known for spreading vaccine misinformation resurfaced a Pfizer document claiming that it shows all of the vaccine’s “adverse effects.” Users also falsely claim that Pfizer was forced to publish the document with the vaccine’s supposed 1,291 adverse effects and that the company intended to hide it. 

Recommendation: These types of posts attempt to undermine the public’s perception of COVID-19 vaccine safety. The document referenced in these posts, which first appeared in 2021, is part of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine Biologics License Application to the FDA. Additionally, the listed adverse effects in the document are unverified and were not necessarily caused by Pfizer’s vaccine. Continuing to reiterate that COVID-19 vaccines are safe is recommended. Messaging may emphasize that adverse effects are extremely rare and that the benefits of vaccination outweigh any potential risks because staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines prevents severe illness, death, and long COVID. The CDC recommends the updated COVID-19 vaccine for everyone 6 months and older.