Out of an abundance of caution, Austin Regional Clinic has paused all Johnson and Johnson (Janssen) vaccinations until further review by the FDA and CDC. We will continue administering Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Current scheduled vaccine appointments will not change.
Almost 7 million doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine have been safely administered in the U.S., but there is a possible concern about a rare occurrence - less than 1 in a million - of a blood clotting disorder diagnosed in 6 patients. It is unclear yet if this is a vaccine-related side effect.
In these cases, the condition developed within 1-2 weeks of receiving the vaccine. This possible side effect does not impact the vaccine effectiveness for anyone who received the vaccine. People who receive the vaccine and develop severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination should contact their health care provider.
Click here to read the CDC and FDA joint statement.