KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Western Michigan University (WMU) will not be administering doses of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccines to its students at this time, per recommendations from the CDC, FDA and State of Michigan.
At this time, the J&J will not be used in Michigan due to an ongoing investigation into reported cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in some individuals.
These adverse reactions appear to be extremely rare, but precautions are still being taken while the cases are investigated.
Kalamazoo County and Western Michigan University both announced Tuesday that the doses administered will be from Pfizer and Moderna for the time being.
In a letter released to the WMU student body, WMU Medical Director Gayle Ruggiero explained what this decision means for students.
“If you previously scheduled an appointment for Wednesday or Thursday and are willing to receive the Pfizer vaccine, you do not need to make any changes,” Ruggiero wrote. “However, you must be willing and available to return in 21 days to complete the vaccine series. Your second dose of the Pfizer vaccine will be scheduled at the time of your first appointment. If you are not willing or able to return for a second dose, please cancel your appointment in the Sindecuse patient portal immediately. It’s critical that we do not waste vaccines.”
WMU students are reminded that there are no out-of-pocket costs to receive a vaccine. Sindecuse collects insurance information and bills insurance as a normal part of its practice to recover costs from insurance companies.
WMU will cover any cost not covered by insurance related to COVID-19 vaccination. All students, including out-of-state and international students, can be vaccinated regardless of their insured status.
WMU also released the following list of important items for students to remember:
- You should arrive at the clinic entrance five minutes before your appointed time.
- You’ll be screened for symptoms and expected to show a cleared green badge for identification.
- Allow 45 minutes for your appointment, which will include waiting 15 to 30 minutes after receiving a dose so we can monitor you for adverse reaction.
- Your second dose will be scheduled on-site.
- Wear loose-sleeved upper clothing so nurses can easily access your shoulder.
- Parking will be limited in Lot 13; walk, if you can.
- The entrance to the clinic is across from the parking lot.
- These clinics are by appointment only. Walk-ins are not allowed.
Students are also reminded that if they have an appointment scheduled elsewhere and would like to reschedule through the university instead, make sure to cancel that previous appointment.
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