J&J Add Autoimmune Adverse Reaction to COVID Vaccine Warning Label

July 13, 2021

Yesterday, Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine supplier Janssen Biotech, Inc. released a statement regarding the potential risks of their adenovirus vaccine. The updated disclaimer states:
“The reporting rate of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia following administration of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine has been highest in females ages 18 through 49 years; some have been fatal.”
This edit was meant to clarify the current understanding around the risk of clotting in females 18-49 years old. The notice also featured a new warning regarding the vaccine’s ability to trigger Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in recipients. GBS is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own nerve cells, causing muscle weakness and, sometimes, paralysis. Learn more about GBS here. 
It is important to note that GBS is typically triggered by a viral infection, and most people fully recover. 

In their recent press release, Janssen Biotech, Inc. explained that there are increased (but still very low) risks of developing GBS in the 42 days that follow vaccinations. VAERS cases were typically reported by males over 50 years of age, within two weeks of vaccination. The report recommends that those who are experiencing tingling in their legs or arms, troubles walking, or other symptoms seek medical attention immediately. 
Interestingly, the statement also noted that adverse reactions following vaccination are reported voluntarily. Preliminary reports have concluded that only about 8 people per million of those who had been vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine experienced problems with GBS. This means that the frequency of reactions like the onset of GBS and blood clotting have still yet to be pinpointed as casual relationships. For this reason, Johnson & Johnson and the FDA consider this vaccine to be safe, and that the risks of COVID-19 infection outweigh the risks of the vaccine’s potential side effects at this time.