WORCESTER, Mass. - The CDC and FDA have launched an investigation into a potential connection between the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and Guillain-Barré syndrome, which can lead to muscle weakness and temporary paralysis.

According to the CDC, of the 12.8 million vaccines given in the U.S., there have been about 100 reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome about two weeks after vaccination, mainly in men ages 50 and older.

UMass Memorial Health internal medecine specialist, Dr. Robert Klugman, says these rates are fairly consistent with the normal rates. Dr. Klugman says it's something to be aware of, but it’s not enough to avoid getting the vaccine.

"The rate is very small. It's a rare complication, even if it is a complication, which it well not be. It may just be something we are seeing coincidentally, as it occurs in the community anyway," said Dr. Klugman. "But, the liberties on literature about the virus is very worrisome."

“People who get the virus, a good percentage of them even after a year, they're tired, they're short of breath, they can't concentrate, they're depressed," Dr. Klugman added. "The side effects of the virus are far far worse and much more dangerous than potential rare side effects of the vaccine."

Dr. Klugman says they haven't seen similar links between the disorder and the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines and says it’s important to be vaccinated, especially as the delta variant spreads.