Quick Take
Social media users have shared a video multiple times that shows National Football League (NFL) Los Angeles Chargers player Donald Parham Junior suffered a concussion and claim the reason is Covid-19 booster shot. We fact-checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
A video titled, “Donald Parham (COVID-Vax heart stopper moment?) in full touch down air” shows Donald Parham Junior unable to move after catching a sports ball.
In response a social media user writes, “NFL player Donald Parham’s heart explodes mid-air while catching a sports ball. NFL player Donald Parham had recently taken his booster shot for Covid-19. This is one of the many cases where pro athletes have heart problems after taking the Covid boosters…”. The video and the post can be seen here.
Fact Check
Did Donald Parham Junior suffer a concussion?
Yes. Donald Parham Junior suffered a concussion while playing the game. The team issued a press release confirming the same.
Is Covid-19 vaccine responsible for the concussion?
No. There is no evidence of Covid-19 vaccine being the reason for concussion. Rather, Donald Parham Junior suffered a head injury a few minutes before the concussion. Medical experts believe, head injury can be a potent cause of concussion.
Dr Brian Sutterer, physician at the Mayo Clinic, explains concussion in a video, “When people have head injuries, there can be all kinds of abnormal, electrical depolarization and discharge from the neurons in the brain which can lead to abnormal movements”. Dr Sutterer describes the action as a “primitive reflex” triggered out of the need to protect oneself.
The Healthy Indian Project (THIP) has also addressed similar claims about increased deaths among athletes due to Covid-19 vaccine here and here.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.