CDC Recommends Pfizer and Moderna as Preferred Vaccines over Johnson & Johnson

On Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended Americans avoid receiving the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine when others are available, such as the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna versions.

The J&J vaccine is linked with the potential to trigger a rare blood clotting issue—the likelihood of which appears to be more prevalent than once believed, according to health experts.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices unanimously endorsed the decision to avoid the J&J vaccine, which came after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provided updated information on the blood clot risks. The panel also mentioned the J&J vaccine shows evidence of reduced effectiveness compared to other brands and hinted this may have factored into the avoidance recommendation.

Currently, over 50 people have been hospitalized due blood clots believed to be linked to the J&J vaccine, and nine people have died.

The J&J vaccine will still remain on the market. It will continue to be available to those “unable or unwilling” to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, according to the CDC. The FDA noted that the benefits of vaccination still outweigh the risks.

What’s Next?

Approximately 16 million Americans have received the J&J vaccine so far, according to CDC data. Since the CDC and FDA have already authorized “mix and match” shots, these individuals are encouraged to seek a booster of another brand (e.g., Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna).

There is still much unknown about the blood clotting issue, although the CDC says women under the age of 50 are at a higher risk.

According to the CDC, COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Anyone seeking to learn more about the blood clotting issue and vaccine guidance can visit the CDC website.