Australia’s drug and medicines safety and regulatory agency, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), says there is no increased risk of blood clots from COVID-19 vaccines for people with diabetes.

Professor John Skerrit, Head of TGA Regulation, said in a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald: “The TGA has reviewed a significant amount of international data, and will continue to, but there is currently no evidence of an increased risk with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.”

The statement comes in response to last week’s tragic news of the death of a 48-year-old woman who developed a very rare blood clot condition likely linked to her recent AstraZeneca vaccine. The TGA’s vaccine safety investigation group concluded her death was linked to the vaccine, however more investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.

Professor Stephen Twigg, head of the department of endocrinology at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, also said there was no evidence that people living with diabetes were at a higher risk of developing the type of very rare blood clots linked to the Astra Zeneca vaccine. 

Professor Twigg said the current recommendation was that both vaccines were suitable for people with diabetes, and people who are under 50 should follow the latest expert advice.

Dr Steve Stranks, President of the Australia Diabetes Society, said it was important people with diabetes get vaccinated against COVID-19.

“The risk of severe COVID-19 illness for people with diabetes is far greater than the risk of complications with vaccines,” says Dr Stranks

“The recommendation remains that adults with diabetes should get vaccinated. We encourage people with diabetes to talk to their doctor or other health professional about their personal circumstances.”

Diabetes Australia recommends anyone who may have concerns to speak with their trusted diabetes healthcare team for advice and ongoing support.