The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup has concluded that “the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen Biotech) COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for use in the Western States.”

The workgroup, composed of nationally acclaimed scientists with expertise in immunizations and public health, has been independently reviewing the safety and efficacy of all FDA approved COVID-19 vaccines. The workgroup previously approved the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines late last year.

The single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which received an Emergency Use Authorization from the federal government over the weekend, is expected to arrive in Oregon this week.

“We will work to distribute vaccines as quickly and equitably as possible as we move forward to vaccinate seniors, people with underlying health conditions, frontline workers, and all Oregonians,” said Governor Kate Brown.

Read the full press release here.

This article first appeared in the March 3, 2021 issue of Oregon Coronavirus Update.