Spain: Landmark Ruling Recognizes AstraZeneca Vaccine Side Effects as Work Accident
In a groundbreaking decision, a Spanish Social Court has ruled that adverse effects stemming from the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine can be classified as a work accident. The ruling, issued by Social Court number 31 in Barcelona, sets a meaningful legal precedent within the country.
The case centers on Pedro García,a physics and chemistry teacher at the Institut Infanta Isabel D’Aragó. García received the AstraZeneca vaccine in 2021 as part of the essential worker vaccination program.Weeks later, he developed severe thrombosis requiring hospitalization for over three weeks, including time in intensive care. Doctors diagnosed him with thrombocytopenia induced by the Vaxzevria vaccine – a reaction acknowledged by the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS).
Represented by health law specialist Francesc Feliu, the court determined a direct connection between garcía’s vaccination and his professional activity. This designation means his resulting medical sequelae will be treated as a work accident, entitling him to increased coverage and social protection benefits.
The Association of Essential Workers affected by the AstraZeneca Vaccine (Ateva) hailed the verdict as “the frist gesture of justice” after a prolonged period of advocacy, emphasizing the long-overdue public acknowledgement of those silently impacted by vaccine side effects.
Currently, García remains under medical observation due to a permanent obstruction of the vein connecting to his liver. While his condition is currently stable, medical professionals caution about potential future complications.
This ruling is expected to pave the way for further claims from other essential workers who experienced similar adverse effects following vaccination, representing a considerable shift in how the legal system addresses side effects related to workplace vaccinations.
(Source: Argentine news; photo: Archive)
