Convenience Big Store: J&J vaccine 'pause' prompts rush for local counties to find alternate options

Sacramento, other local counties rush to provide alternate vaccines amid statewide Johnson & Johnson hold – The California Department of Public Health announced a pause of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine, following recommendations made by the CDC and FDA amid a report that six women in the U.S. developed rare and severe blood clots after receiving the Janssen vaccine. However, Dr. Erica Pan, state epidemiologist, said in a press release that California doesn't expect this to impact the vaccination process in the state too drastically. "In California, less than 4% of our vaccine allocation this week is the Johnson & Johnson vaccine,” Pan said. Sacramento County said it would provide Pfizer or Moderna vaccines instead of Johnson & Johnson doses for previously schedule appointments at local clinics, but would not be able to take walk-in appointments at this time. Stanislaus County similarly announced it would use Moderna vaccines instead, while the Stockton Arena mass vaccination site said all 1,000+ appointments scheduled for Tuesday would use "alternate vaccine supply." (Samantha Solomon, Staff, ABC10)

'Some people have big machetes on their belt' | People living along the American River Parkway say it isn't safe – Homicide investigators are still trying to find witnesses who may have information regarding the death of a homeless woman found along the American River Parkway Sunday. Right now, they have few leads, but those living along the parkway say violence is increasing. Julie Maestas knew the woman who was found dead. She says the encampments in this area are overcrowded and it’s causing violent conflicts. Every Monday the volunteers with Works of Mercy Homeless Outreach group hand out food and other supplies to the needy along the parkway. Some volunteers say that since the start of the pandemic, the homeless population has only grown. (John Bartell, ABC10)

Sacramento Kings announce plan for fans to return, which includes proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test – The sound of the buzzer, the roar for the crowd and the clanging of the infamous cowbells will be back at the Golden 1 Center for the first time in over a year as the Sacramento Kings will bring fans back on April 20. This announcement follows the state's decision last week to allow indoor events, concerts, theater performances and other private gatherings starting on April 15 across California. The Kings are going to honor frontline workers in that first game by allowing them to be the first fans back at Golden 1. The first game will be limited to about 1,600 preselected frontline workers. The Kings will gradually expand the number of fans allowed in the arena throughout the next few games. (Meagan McPhillips, ABC10)

TIP OF THE DAY

Stimulus check update Could you be getting more stimulus money? 'Plus-up' payments will be made to some 2020 tax filers and some have already been sent out. Here is who qualifies for the extra stimulus money. (Travis Pittman, TEGNA)

SMILE

Say 'I do' Though California is opening up little by little, the wedding industry is getting creative to bring that magical day to life amid continued coronavirus restrictions. “Things are getting creative and people are trying to find ways to get outside and do something different,” said wedding planner Maya Dennis. (Brea Love, ABC10)