Fact check: Deaths and mRNA and spike protein

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided suggest that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are generally safe, with rare severe adverse events such as myocarditis and thrombosis, but no documented vaccine-related deaths ^[1]. The phase 3 trial of the BNT162b2 vaccine reported two deaths among vaccine recipients and four among placebo recipients, but none were judged to be related to the vaccine ^[2]. A comprehensive review of Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines also found no evidence of deaths caused by mRNA vaccines or spike protein ^[3]. The vaccines are highly efficacious in preventing severe disease and death ^[3]. Key points to note include:

• Rare severe adverse events are possible, such as myocarditis and anaphylaxis ^{[1] [3]}
• No vaccine-attributable mortality has been documented in the studies reviewed ^{[2] [3]}
• The vaccines are effective in preventing severe disease and death ^[3]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some missing context includes:

• Long-term effects of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, which may require further research ^[1]
• Comparison to other vaccine types, such as traditional inactivated vaccines or viral vector vaccines ^[3]
• Specific populations that may be at higher risk for adverse events, such as older adults or those with certain medical conditions (not mentioned in the analyses)

Alternative viewpoints may include:

• Critiques of vaccine trial design, such as the use of placebo controls or the duration of follow-up (not mentioned in the analyses)
• Concerns about vaccine distribution and access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (not mentioned in the analyses)
• The role of non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as masking and social distancing, in preventing COVID-19 transmission (not mentioned in the analyses)

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement "Deaths and mRNA and spike protein" is vague and potentially misleading, as it implies a direct link between mRNA vaccines and deaths, which is not supported by the analyses ^{[1] [2] [3]}. This framing may benefit anti-vaccine groups or individuals who seek to discredit the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. On the other hand, public health organizations and vaccine manufacturers may benefit from a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the risks and benefits of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines ^{[1] [2] [3]}.