Analysis: rare side-effects mean that confidence in both the Johnson & Johnson and Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines is now shaken
The US has paused its use of the single-shot Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine while investigations take place into six cases of women who have experienced rare blood clotting events combined with low platelets in the days following vaccination, in another blow to hopes of vaccinating the whole world as fast as possible.
The six cases being investigated in the US – from 6.8m doses of J&J vaccine administered – seem to be similar to those that have caused alarm across Europe, linked to the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine. Some countries have suspended the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine while others have imposed age limits. In France, it will not be given to anyone under 55, while in Germany it is offered to the over-60s. The UK is allowing the under-30s to choose an alternative.
