While this past year has involved pain, stress, and loss, we’ve also demonstrated community resilience. It’s that resilience that will help us build this community into something stronger.

Johnson & Johnson vaccine “on pause”

All vaccine providers in Olmsted County will pause use of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccine starting immediately, following guidance from the FDA/CDC. Use of the J&J vaccine will be put on hold until we receive further recommendations from state and federal partners about how best to move forward. Safety is the highest priority when it comes to all COVID-19 vaccines.

What’s new?

Johnson & Johnson vaccine discarded at Baltimore facility

Last week, we learned that about 15 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine were ruined at a manufacturing facility in Baltimore, Maryland. This does not affect any doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine currently being used or doses being allocated. The problem was quickly identified, and the doses were discarded – this is exactly what should happen during quality checks. There’s no reason to avoid getting a Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

April 2021 marks the 20th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a movement to end sexual violence in the United States and around the world. This movement relies on people and communities who’ve chosen to do something about it. Olmsted County and the City of Rochester are committed to bringing awareness to this issue and we stand with all individuals who have been impacted by sexual assault.