
While knowledge about the mechanisms of this allergy is limited, PEG and polysorbate allergies are extremely rare. According to the FDA, a severe reaction can be characterized by:Īn ingredient that has raised particular concerns about allergic response is polysorbate 80, a chemical that is structurally related to polyethylene glycol (PEG), found in Pfizer’s and Moderna’s mRNA vaccines, both of which have prompted similar worries.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that, while it continues to monitor the safety responses from regulatory agencies, the vaccine is safe and effective against the severe risks of COVID-19.Īs with other COVID-19 vaccines, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has a low but potential risk of causing an allergic reaction.Ī non-severe allergic reaction may include symptoms such as hives, swelling, rash, and respiratory problems.Ī more severe, anaphylaxis response is much rarer. Moreover, both agencies want women to know that alternative COVID-19 vaccines are available, for which there are currently no reports of rare blood clots. They noted, however, that women under the age of 50 should be aware of the risk of rare blood clots. On April 20, the company announced it would resume distribution of its vaccine in the European Union but with a safety warning, after the EMA concluded that the vaccine’s benefits continue to outweigh its risks.Īfter halting vaccination in the United States a few weeks ago, the FDA and the CDC recently recommended that vaccinations resume.

At the same time, Johnson & Johnson delayed the distribution of the vaccine in Europe while the EMA conducted its own review.

However, the FDA recommended a pause in the vaccine’s use, as a precautionary measure following a small number of rare blood clot incidents.
