Myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination

Abstract

Myocarditis reactive to the COVID-19 vaccine has progressively been observed during the massive vaccination campaign among the population. It usually follows the second dose, occurs within 5 days of vaccine administration, and affects more often young men. The incidence is rare, clinical presentation usually benign, and the evolution is generally uncomplicated, without long term sequelae. Moreover, mortality is rate extremely low. Although the physio-pathological mechanisms implicated are not fully elucidated to date, several hypotheses have been put forward. Finally, the low risk of post-vaccination myocarditis must be weighed against the undeniable public health benefits of the vaccine compared to the risks of severe complications inherent to COVID-19 infection itself.