US Likely to Resume Janssen Vaccinations (Comprehensive)

"Rare Cases Are Enough Warning"
Vaccination Restrictions Possible Domestically

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy reporters Hyun-ui Cho and Ji-hee Kim] 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. As South Korea is also expected to accelerate preparations for Janssen vaccinations, concerns about vaccination restrictions are likely to deepen.

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 as early as this weekend is under review." U.S. health authorities decided to suspend use on the 13th (local time) after six rare blood clot cases were reported among Janssen vaccine recipients. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a CDC advisory body, will reconsider whether to change recommendations for the Janssen vaccine on the 23rd.

According to WP, the new recommendation will include a warning about the rare possibility of side effects such as blood clots. This is similar to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) decision on the 20th to start vaccinations while adding warnings about the possibility of blood clots. WP explained, "The rarity of blood clot cases convinced health officials," adding, "They believe the issue can be addressed by adding warnings that describe groups at higher risk of side effects and informing doctors on how to treat them." However, age-based restrictions are not expected to be recommended. WP noted, "The recommendation could change if blood clot cases surge or other side effects are discovered."

As U.S. health authorities are expected to take a stance similar to EMA, momentum for domestic introduction has strengthened. Since the government excluded those under 30 from AstraZeneca vaccine recipients, similar measures could be applied to the Janssen vaccine. Authorities will soon review the target groups and criteria for Janssen vaccination through the Vaccination Expert Committee. The amount of Janssen vaccine scheduled for domestic introduction is enough for 6 million people, with supply negotiations currently underway for the second quarter.