It was announced Tuesday by the CDC and FDA that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine distribution has been put on pause because of reports of blood clots within certain individuals.

Because of this, South Dakota State University has canceled the third vaccine clinic for April 14, which would have used J&J vaccines. The previous two clinics that took place March 24 and 30 also used J&J vaccines.

While this is certainly something that needs to be looked into, it’s important to remember that only a very small percentage of those who received the vaccine have suffered from this condition. Only six out of the 6.8 million people who have received the vaccine have experienced blood clotting. By that percentage, people are more at risk for blood clots while using birth control than the J&J vaccine.

Even though the possibility of these effects may seem alarming at first, it should not be a reason to skip all forms of the COVID-19 vaccine. So far, the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are reportedly safe.

It makes sense that during the emergency rollout of all three vaccines, if there were to be something faulty with one, officials would take extra precautions and diligently review the vaccine before allowing the public to receive it again. Just because they are being cautious does not mean we need to be afraid of all COVID-19 vaccines.

It’s also important to continue getting vaccinated to help slow the spread of COVID-19. To reach herd immunity and get back to some form of normal, it is imperative that people get vaccinated. Experts have said that if 70-90% of people are vaccinated against COVID-19, people would start to build up immunity.

For those who haven’t gotten their vaccine yet, the Brookings Health System is hosting a vaccine clinic for the two-dose Moderna vaccine April 15 and April 22. SDSU students are encouraged to sign up for these clinics so they can still receive their shot.

Symptoms for possible blood clotting due to the J&J vaccine include headaches, abdominal pain, leg pain and shortness of breath. If anyone received the J&J vaccine in the last three weeks and is experiencing similar symptoms, they are advised to contact their medical physicians.

The Collegian Editorial Board meets weekly and agrees on the issue of the editorial. The editorial represents the opinion of The Collegian.