Silence over ‘Ondesterone’ vaccine raises suspicion – Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa

Colombo, April 05 (Daily Mirror) – Specialist Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa has alleged that the continued silence of health authorities over the controversial “Ondesterone” vaccine, suspected to be linked to several patient deaths, raises serious concerns.

Dr. Sanjeewa, Chairman of the Doctors' Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights, questioned why international reports related to the vaccine have not yet been disclosed to the public.

He said several hospitals across the island had reported deaths during the latter half of last year, allegedly linked to the vaccine and other subsequently withdrawn batches.

According to Dr. Sanjeewa, the Medicines Regulatory Authority had revealed that initial tests conducted at the Kandy National Hospital detected bacterial toxins in certain vaccine batches. 

However, he claimed that health authorities have failed to release relevant international findings on the issue so far.

He further said that nearly ten batches of vaccines, including the one in question, were temporarily withdrawn from use over six months ago, but no detailed clarification has been provided to the public.

Dr. Sanjeewa also warned that the country’s health system could face a serious crisis if medicines imported without proper regulatory supervision continue to be used.

Referring to a recent Supreme Court order, he said that providing medicines to patients without ensuring quality standards amounts to a violation of fundamental human rights, and urged authorities to act with greater transparency and accountability.