Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Linked to Major Eye Damage, Study Finds
A new study has raised concerns about how the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine may affect the eyes, specifically the cornea, the clear front part of the eye that helps focus vision.
Study Suggests Subtle But Measurable Eye Changes
Turkish researchers studied 64 people before and after they received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Two months after the second dose, the participants’ corneas had become slightly thicker, and they had fewer endothelial cells—the specialized cells that keep the cornea clear by pumping out fluid.
These changes didn’t cause any immediate vision problems, but scientists say they could become a concern for people with existing eye issues or those who have had cornea transplants.
What’s the Risk?
The cornea’s thickness increased by about 2%—from 528 to 542 micrometers. That might sound minor, and in most healthy people, it is. But if these changes are long-lasting, they could lead to blurry vision or swelling, especially in vulnerable individuals.
The number of endothelial cells dropped by about 8%, from an average of 2,597 to 2,378 per square millimeter. While that’s still within a normal range, it could be problematic for people already starting with a low count due to age, surgery, or eye disease.
Warning for People With Pre-existing Eye Conditions
The researchers warned that people who already have a low endothelial count—or who’ve had a corneal graft—should be monitored closely. A loss of too many of these cells can lead to conditions like corneal edema or bullous keratopathy, which can cause permanent vision loss if untreated.
They also noticed changes in the shape and size of the cells. Healthy endothelial cells usually have a hexagon-like shape that helps them fit together neatly. After vaccination, fewer cells retained that shape, which the researchers said could be a sign of stress or inflammation.
Importantly, the study didn’t suggest people should avoid the Pfizer vaccine. The researchers made it clear that more long-term research is needed to see if the changes are permanent. They also emphasised that the observed effects were minor and didn’t cause visual symptoms during the short follow-up period.
The data was collected using special imaging tools that measured eye pressure, shape, and cell health before and after vaccination.
Adds to Existing Concerns About Pfizer’s Side Effects
This isn’t the first time Pfizer’s vaccine has come under scrutiny. In May, the U.S. FDA updated warning labels on both Pfizer and Moderna shots, highlighting the risk of heart inflammation—especially in young men.
This latest study adds a new layer of concern, though scientists stress the findings should be viewed as preliminary and not a reason to panic. Instead, they’re urging continued monitoring—especially for people who already have eye health issues.
Follow Us on Google News for Immediate Updates
The post Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Linked to Major Eye Damage, Study Finds appeared first on iHarare News.
