New data on new Johnson & Johnson vaccine shows lower effectiveness than existing alternatives

Research shows the vaccine is 72% effective in preventing moderate disease in the United States but 85% effective against severe disease.

But while the effectiveness numbers are lower than the two vaccines on the market right now, local experts say they believe it will still protect people from the virus and known variants.

They also believe having more vaccines available will help the distribution process.

“I think based on what this looks like if it were offered to me tomorrow, I would take it,” said Dr. Matt Koci, an NCSU virologist.

“Certainly having this vaccine that’s just one shot, that doesn’t have as strict temperature requirements as the other two vaccines right now have, should make it a lot easier to get more shots in more arms," Koci said.

Johnson and Johnson is expected to submit their data to the FDA for emergency use authorization approval next week.