Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Clotting Cases: The Latest Updates
With the promise of increasing protection against the coronavirus, many citizens were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. However, the previous weeks have brought important safety issues to light. After reports of Johnson & Johnson vaccine clotting cases, the U.S. and other countries began pausing their vaccine programs, further delaying the world’s journey to recovery from the pandemic. As of April 19, 2021, all three Covid 19 vaccine makers (Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, & Moderna) are moving cautiously forward. Here are the latest updates about Johnson & Johnson vaccine clotting cases.
What We Know About Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Clotting Cases
On April 13, 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food & Drug Administration issued a joint statement recommending a pause in administering the Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 vaccine, following reports of 7 people in the United States falling ill as a result of vaccine-induced clotting. The agencies recommended further study, and urged providers to stop giving the vaccine until they could learn more. The pause was lifted on April 23, 2021.
Clotting Conditions Linked to Johnson & Johnson Vaccine
The 7 cases of blood clotting all had a similarly rare condition known as Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis, or CVST. This condition affects brain tissue and may be caused by using estrogen-based medications, pregnancy, dehydration and certain clot-causing genetic disorders. While CVST is a rare condition, Johnson & Johnson vaccine clotting cases have prompted medical professionals to investigate further and ensure that those receiving the vaccine are aware of the potential side effects.
Advisory for Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Recipients
The CDC is recommending that individuals who have talked the Johnson & Johnson vaccine contact their health care provider immediately if they develop symptoms of vaccinbe-induced clotting. These symptoms are severe abdominal pain, severe leg pain, or shortness of breath 15 days after they have received the vaccine. If a person experiences any of these symptoms, they should contact a medical professional right away.
Reactions From Around The World
The pause in administering the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has caused reactions around the world. The European Medicines Authority said it is monitoring but not recommending a change of use for the vaccine. South Africa has gone ahead with administering the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, despite the worries, as they are currently experiencing their second wave of coronavirus cases.
The Latest Recommendations
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food & Drug Administration have made the following recommendations for those hoping to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. First, understand the potential risks of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Second, pay attention for signs of blood clotting and seek medical attention if needed. Third, get the Johnson & Johnson vaccine if otherwise eligible, unless you have had a severe allergic reaction to any vaccine previously.
What to Expect Going Forward
Johnson & Johnson is continuing to look into the reported cases of blood clotting. As of April 23, 2021, the company is not recommending any changes to the vaccine at this time. The few clotting cases reported across the U.S. have raised some questions and concerns, but medical experts believe the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks. As always, it’s important for patients to carefully review their health records and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider before taking the vaccine.
Understanding the potential risks for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is key for informed decision making. After a week-long pause, the CDC and FDA lifted their recommendation on administering the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine. With the potential of getting another vaccine, individuals may opt for the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine as those have not had any reported cases of blood clotting. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a great option and experts believe it offers the same level of protection as the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
