Investigation Launched After Young Woman's Death Raises Concerns Over Vaccine Safety

COLOMBO (News 1st): A special committee has been appointed to investigate the tragic death of a 24-year-old woman at the Wijaya Kumaratunga Memorial Hospital in Seeduwa, which her family claims was linked to an adverse reaction to a vaccine.

Secretary of the Ministry Dr. Palitha Mahipala said that the committee will be led by a Deputy Director General.

In addition to the internal investigation, the National Medicines Regulatory Authority has requested a report regarding the vaccine administered to the young woman.

Dr. Mahipala said that relevant departments have been instructed to expedite their findings.

The woman was admitted to the hospital on the morning of October 2, after suffering from severe stomach acidity since the previous day. Her parents claim that her condition had worsened, prompting them to seek medical attention at the hospital.

The deceased was a resident of Hasalaka.

News 1st's efforts to contact the management of the Wijaya Kumaratunga Memorial Hospital for further comment on the incident were unsuccessful.