U.S. President Joe Biden will announce that pharmaceutical firm Merck will assist Johnson & Johnson’s in manufacturing a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a report.
- Merck will dedicate two facilities in the United States to J&J’s vaccine. One for the manufacturing of the vaccine and another for “fill-finish” services and the last stage of production.
- The U.S. government reported to ship J&J’s entire inventory of 3.9 million doses this week to add to “uneven supply in the following weeks. Additional 16 million doses expected by the end of the month.
- Officials scouted for possible partnership ventures after J&J fell behind in vaccine production. Merck deal was sought after its clinical trial showed shots were ineffective.
- J&J declined to comment while Merck said it remains committed to contributing to the global COVID-19 response.
- The Food and Drug Administration on Saturday approved the use of J&J for individuals aged 18 and higher.
XTB
