Gov Cox: J&J vaccine should be available in Utah this week

Feb 27, 2021, 10:30 PM

Digital Content Producer

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Gov. Spencer Cox issued a statement Saturday night announcing that the state expects to begin receiving doses of the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday.

On Saturday the Food and Drug Administration’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee unanimously recommended an emergency use authorization of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

“Once approved by the FDA and with guidance we expect to come from the CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] Sunday, Utah expects to begin receiving doses Wednesday,” Gov. Cox said in a statement.

Also on Saturday, the Utah Department of Health reported that more than 702-thousand vaccines have already been administered in Utah.

“So many have suffered through this pandemic,” said Gov. Cox. “A third authorized vaccine tells me that even through some of our darkest times, miracles still happen.

“This is a testament to modern research, science, public health and medicine,” Gov. Cox said.

The Johnson and Johnson vaccine also referred to as the Janssen vaccine, is a single-dose vaccine. As such, it offers the state flexibility in storage as well as the ability to get the vaccine into the arms of Utah residents who may be less likely to receive a second dose.

Gov. Cox said that once the state receives the doses that they will be distributed according to eligibility standards that are already in place.

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus spreads person to person, similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
Don’t touch your face.
Wear a mask to protect yourself and others per CDC recommendations.
Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet).
If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities).
Get a flu shot.