Why was the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Stopped?
Over 6.8 million Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine doses have been given in the U.S. since April 12. However, the CDC and FDA are currently reviewing six cases. In these cases, a rare but severe type of blood clot was found. The rare Covid vaccine side effect is discovered in women between the ages of 18-48, after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. In severe cases, a type of blood clot called cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) was found. The Covid vaccine side effect was present in patients that had low blood platelets (thrombocytopenia). It is extremely rare, only one per million.
The symptoms appeared 6 to 13 days after getting vaccinated. If you received the J&J vaccine, stay vigilant for two to three weeks. This caution is to make sure you don’t have any adverse side effects. Afterwards, you should be okay. The Covid vaccine side effect is a concern because unlike other blood clots, this one cannot be treated with heparin, an anticoagulant drug. The FDA and CDC want to make sure heath professions and distributors, alike are aware of the covid vaccine side effect and the recommendation that heparin not be used if found. One Virginia woman, 45 years of age, has already died in connection to the dangerous side effect.
The Statement From the CDC & FDA Regarding Covid Vaccine Side Effect
The CDC and FDA are investigating a side effect of the Johnson & Johnson Covid Vaccine and recommend halting its distribution.
The CDC announced a meeting with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to assess the significance of these cases. The FDA will investigate and analyze the cases. As a precaution, they recommend pausing the use of the vaccine until the process is complete. It’s important for healthcare providers to be aware of potential adverse events. The FDA emphasizes the need for providers to plan for recognizing and managing this unique type of blood clot.
Further Research May be Needed
This vaccine was in development during the stages of the discovery of new strands of the Covid virus. Therefore, there are still testing that needs to be done. It is considered safe for most patients to protect against the virus’s most dangerous side effect, death. However, it doesn’t eliminate the risk of getting Covid or the experience of Covid symptoms. Still, the blood clots, Covid vaccine side effect appear to be extremely rare.
What Should You Do If You Are Experiencing Side effects from the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine?
If you have a severe headache, stomach pain, leg pain, or difficulty breathing within three weeks after getting vaccinated, please seek medical advice. Headaches could be a sign that you may have a blood clot that is traveling to your brain. However, before you run to the ER over fear of blood clots, mild headaches may be normal response to many of the vaccines. So, just because you have a headache, doesn’t mean you have the blood clot. Remain cautious and vigilant with protection protocals such as mask wearing and washing hands even after getting vaccinated. Consult with your doctor if you find any reason to be concerned.