Top US health officials recommend ‘pause’ for J&J vaccine prior to Lutsen event

The U.S. is recommending a “pause” in the administration of the single-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to investigate reports of potentially dangerous blood clots.

The news came one day before a vaccination event at the Lutsen Town Hall where the J&J vaccine was scheduled to be administered in Cook County.

During a meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners April 13, Cook County Public Health Supervisor said the J&J vaccine will not be offered during the Lutsen event this week as the event has been canceled. 

In a joint statement Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration said it was investigating clots in six women in the days after vaccination, in combination with reduced platelet counts.
More than 6.8 million doses of the J&J vaccine have been administered in the U.S.

U.S. federal distribution channels, including mass vaccination sites, will pause the use of the J&J shot, and states and other providers are expected to follow.

The audio below is Grinager speaking during today’s meeting of the county board about this situation.

Check back for updates and listen to the North Shore News April 13 at noon and 5 p.m. to learn more. Cook County Public Health Supervisor Grace Grinager is scheduled to share an update during today’s show.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.