An elderly man collapsed and died in Manhattan on Sunday morning shortly after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination at the Javits Center, a health official said.
The man, in his 70s, fell as he was leaving the building about 25 minutes after his vaccination, according to a statement from New York state health commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker.
“Initial indications are that the man did not have any allergic reaction to the vaccine,” Zucker said in his statement.
During a required 15-minute observation period following the vaccination, the man exhibited no adverse effects from the jab, Zucker said.
First responders rendered aid “within seconds,” but the man later died at a nearby hospital, according to the health commissioner.
“Public health experts agree, the vaccine is safe, and together with continued vigilance including wearing a mask and social distancing, it will bring an end to this pandemic,” said Zucker.
“I encourage all eligible New Yorkers to get vaccinated.”
Additional reporting by Kenneth Garger