Sen. Rand Paul, a medical doctor, criticized Moderna’s CEO Stéphane Bancel for advancing the use of a vaccine when reports of adverse reactions are on the rise.
The statement was made on Wednesday when Bancel testified before the Senate regarding the safety of COVID-19 vaccines — specifically in light of ongoing reports of adverse reactions, including myocarditis.
Citing a recent study noting the apparent correlation between COVID-19 vaccines and blood clot and heart problems, Sen. Paul (R-KY) asked Bancel a direct question: “Is there a higher incidence of myocarditis among adolescent males ages 16-24 after taking your vaccine?”
Bancel attempted to sidestep the question, replying, “We care deeply about safety, and we’re working closely with the CDC to–”
Paul interrupted the evasive answer, stating that it is “pretty much a yes or no. Is there a higher incidence of myocarditis among boys 16-24 after they take your vaccine?”
Bancel responded: “The data … has shown there’s less [risk] for people who get the vaccine versus people who get the COVID infection.”
Bancel’s response contradicted findings in recent studies. Paul, therefore, pressed for clarification: “You’re saying that for ages 16-24 among males who take the COVID vaccine, their risk of myocarditis is less than people who get the disease?”
Bancel boldly responded: “That is my understanding.”
Paul shot back: “That is not true,” as he added six peer-reviewed research papers to the record, noting the increased risk. And in a stunning rebuke, Paul noted that Moderna’s president had recently acknowledged the increased risk of myocarditis.
Paul took Bancel to task, saying, “The fact that you can’t say it in public is quite disturbing. Do you think it’s scientifically sound to mandate three vaccines for adolescent boys?”
Again Bancel attempted to avoid answering the question. Paul pressed further, noting that Bancel had “been advocating for it.”
Paul noted that myocarditis is more likely to be reported after the second dosage of the vaccine and asked Bancel to state why there is no move to recommend only one dose?
Paul also criticized the CDC for recommending three doses of the Moderna vaccine for people 6-17, along with their “safe and effective” notice on their website.
Turning to Bancel again, Paul said: “I’ll ask you this question: Your 16-year-old had COVID. Your 16-year-old gets better and now has recovered from COVID. You vaccinate them, and they get myocarditis. Are you gonna give them two more vaccines? Your child, give them two more vaccines?”
Bancel offered another evasive response: “I’m not a physician, I would have to discuss–” Bancel said.
Paul pressed: “You have children! Have you vaccinated your children?”
“I have,” replied Bancel.
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