New Delhi, July 2 -- There is no direct link between covid-19 vaccinations and reported instances of sudden death among adults in the country, the health ministry said, citing extensive studies carried out by India's top medical research bodies.

The investigations by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) identified lifestyle choices, pre-existing health conditions and genetic factors as the key contributors to these sudden deaths, the ministry said on Wednesday.

For some time now, a narrative has been built up linking covid-19 vaccines to sudden, unexplained deaths, especially among young adults. This prompted national agencies to ascertain the scientific basis of these cla...