US Likely to Resume Janssen Vaccinations

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The United States is moving toward resuming the use of Johnson & Johnson (J&J) pharmaceutical division Janssen's COVID-19 vaccine. Since cases of blood clots after vaccination are rare, it is considered sufficient to attach a warning label.

On the 22nd (local time), The Washington Post (WP) reported, citing anonymous government officials, that "a plan to recommend resuming the use of the Janssen vaccine is being reviewed as early as this weekend."

U.S. health authorities decided to suspend use on the 13th (local time) after rare blood clot cases were reported in six Janssen vaccine recipients.

The new recommendation is expected to include a warning that rare side effects such as blood clots may occur. This is similar to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) decision on the 20th to start vaccinations while adding a warning about the possibility of blood clots.

WP explained, "The rarity of blood clot cases convinced health officials," adding, "They believe the issue can be resolved by adding warnings that describe groups at higher risk of side effects and informing doctors on how to treat them."

However, unlike decisions in European countries, there are expected to be no age restrictions. WP stated, "The recommendation could change if blood clot cases surge or other side effects are discovered."

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), an advisory body to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), will discuss whether to change the recommendation on the Janssen vaccine on the 23rd. WP said, "If the advisory committee votes to lift the suspension of the Janssen vaccine, a recommendation to resume use could be issued within hours or days."

In Europe, countries are accelerating Janssen vaccine inoculations. The German Ministry of Health will start vaccinations from today, while France and the Netherlands will begin next week.