Johnson & Johnson's One-Dose Vaccine Could Soon Arrive In Arizona

Published: Wednesday, February 24, 2021 - 2:59pm
Updated: Friday, March 19, 2021 - 11:59am

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says a one-dose coronavirus vaccine made by Johnson & Johnson is safe and effective.

An FDA panel will consider emergency use authorization for the vaccine on Friday. Dr. Cara Christ, director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, said if that vaccine gets authorization, doses could start arriving in our state as early as next week.

"We're very excited about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine," Christ said at a press event Wednesday. “We know that there’s not going to be a lot of Johnson & Johnson at first. It’s going to take a while to ramp up production, but we’re looking at where are the best places to get that out to.” 

The two vaccines currently approved for use in the United States are made by Pfizer and Moderna. Each of those vaccines requires two doses, which means the state must manage its limited vaccine supply carefully to ensure Arizonans get their booster shot. It also requires vaccination sites to set aside blocks of appointments for people needing a second dose. A single-dose vaccine would allow much more flexibility in distribution. 

About 15% of Arizonans have had at least one dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Christ said supply continues to be the limiting factor in accelerating Arizona’s vaccine rollout. She said she hopes the general population of the state will have access to vaccines by April or May.

→ Q&AZ: What You Need To Know About Getting The Coronavirus Vaccine In Arizona

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