Two newly published studies are drawing attention to potential health risks associated with the COVID vaccine, though researchers and experts caution that the findings show correlation — not proof of causation.

A Korean study in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases examined how common illnesses shifted before, during, and after the pandemic. Researchers found that while influenza-like illnesses dropped sharply early on, upper respiratory infections and common colds surged in 2023 and 2024 far beyond expected levels.

“Most strikingly, pertussis increased more than 40-fold compared to historical trends,” lead author Jihun Song, Ph.D., told Fox News Digital. He stressed that the study was observational and does not prove that vaccines caused the spike in infections. The researchers also noted that older adults and people with chronic conditions — who are more likely to receive vaccine boosters — may have influenced the results.

Another study in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found an association between COVID vaccination and higher rates of acute kidney injury and dialysis within one year. According to the research, 15,809 vaccinated individuals developed acute kidney injury within 12 months, compared to 11,081 unvaccinated. Additionally, 1,513 vaccinated people required dialysis, compared to 697 unvaccinated.

Despite this, the study also found that vaccinated individuals had lower overall mortality, underscoring the need for careful interpretation of the data.

Experts say the findings raise important questions but emphasize they do not establish direct causation and must be considered alongside extensive research demonstrating vaccine benefits.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)