Locations:
Search IconSearch

Why Was the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Paused and Should I Be Worried?

The short answer from a primary care specialist

A healthcare provider holding a shot in their hands like they are going to administer a vaccine

Q: I received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine – why was it paused and should I be worried?

A: The FDA has recommended resuming the use of the Johnson & Johnson single-dose coronavirus vaccine following a pause to review it after a small number of patients in the U.S. developed a rare blood clot disorder after receiving it.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

At the time of the pause, 8 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine had been administered in the U.S., so although the reaction was extremely rare, federal health agencies made the decision to pause the vaccine out of an abundance of caution while more research was done.

All of the cases occurred in women between the ages of 18 and 59 and symptoms occurred six to 15 days after vaccination.

These reactions appear to be extremely rare, happening to a small percentage of people out of the 8 million who received the vaccine. The federal government and medical experts reviewed and analyzed the data before providing the recommendation that’s it’s safe to resume the vaccine and that any serious side effects are rare.

So what should you do if you already received the Johnson & Johnson shot or if you’re scheduled to?

Be on the lookout for headaches, stomach pain, leg pain or shortness of breath two to three weeks after getting the vaccine. If you’re experiencing any of these reactions, call your healthcare provider immediately.

– General pediatrician, Michelle Medina, MD.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Caregiver drying off toddler with a towel in front of bathtub
September 11, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
How Often Should You Wash Your Bath Towels?

Wash your bath towels at least once a week, and washcloths at least twice a week

Oversized germs and a giant eye with red in the sclera
August 26, 2024/Eye Care
COVID-19 and Pink Eye Are Possibly Connected

Studies have shown an increase in ophthalmic complications as a symptom of COVID-19

Older woman in bathrobe, holding coffee cup, looking window into the neighborhood
August 13, 2024/Infectious Disease
What Are the COVID-19 Guidelines These Days?

Most people can return to work and regular life when they’re symptom-free for 24 hours

Hand spraying disinfectant cleaner and another hand using disinfectant wipe among germs
August 8, 2024/Infectious Disease
Do Lysol Disinfecting Wipes Kill COVID-19?

Lysol Disinfecting Wipes are just one of more than 500 products approved by the EPA for protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19

Person reaching hand over shoulder to their back, which is covered in hives
August 6, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
The Usual Suspects: Looking Out for the Top Chronic Hives Triggers

Infections, autoimmune conditions, major life changes, extreme temps and even sunlight can cause this itchy condition

Hands of healthcare provider checking bangages on knee after surgery
June 21, 2024/Infectious Disease
Signs of an Infection After Surgery

Keep the area clean and monitor your incision site for discharge, odor or a change in appearance

Healthcare provider apply bandaid on patient's arm after a shot
What You Need To Know About MS and Vaccines

Most routine vaccines are safe for people living with multiple sclerosis — but be sure to talk with your care team about your needs

Tube of ivermectin paste lying on straw
June 20, 2024/Infectious Disease
Why You Shouldn’t Take Ivermectin for COVID-19

The medication is ineffective and — in the case of animal ivermectin — potentially dangerous

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad