Update
On April 25, the CDC and FDA issued a new statement that recommending that distribution of the J&J vaccine should resume, effective immediately. For more information, visit the CDC website.
Original Post
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a joint statement on April 13, 2021 detailing a very rare, but potentially serious side effect for the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine. Six women between the ages of 18 and 48 experienced a rare type of blood clot six to 13 days after receiving the J&J vaccine. Out of an abundance of caution, the FDA and CDC have temporarily paused distribution of the J&J vaccine while these cases are further reviewed.
While this side effect is very rare, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms associated with this type of blood clot. If you have already received the J&J vaccine and develop severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain or shortness of breath within three weeks after your vaccination, you should contact their health care provider.
If you were scheduled to receive a J&J vaccine, please contact the team distributing your vaccine to see if another vaccine has been substituted or to reschedule your appointment.
For more information on vaccines, please visit our Vaccine resources page.
