US Department of Veterans Affairs Pauses Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Distribution

The US Department of Veterans Affairs has decided to temporarily halt the administration of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine due to concerns raised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This precautionary measure prioritizes the safety of veterans, their spouses, and caregivers. Moderna and Pfizer vaccines remain available for those seeking vaccination.

Key Takeaways:

• The US Department of Veterans Affairs has paused administration of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine due to concerns about rare side effects, as advised by the CDC and FDA.
• Moderna and Pfizer vaccines continue to be available for all veterans, their spouses, and caregivers.
• Spouses and caregivers must first register in-person to schedule an appointment, providing the veteran's social security number.
• All individuals entering the Salisbury VA HCS property will be screened for the COVID-19 virus and required to wear a mask.
• Veterans and staff are encouraged to take daily preventative actions, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with those exhibiting symptoms.

Statistics:

• (800) 706-9126: the Call Center phone number for scheduling a COVID-19 vaccination appointment
• 20 seconds: the recommended duration for washing hands with soap and water
• 60%: the minimum alcohol concentration required for effective hand sanitizers
• (Available information does not specify dates, appointment schedules, or vaccination rates; however, this information may be obtained from the CDC website or VA facilities.)

Sources:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• US Department of Veterans Affairs news release