The Johnson & Johnson vaccine has been beset by controversy since before it even rolled out. Still, the actual data around the vaccine has been consistent: It’s generally safe and offers a significant layer of protection against COVID-19. But the emergence (and now, dominance) of new variants is changing the narrative. New research now suggests that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may not be as effective against variants as the other vaccines available here in the US.
A preliminary study was released yesterday that suggests that the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine is substantially less effective against the Delta variant than the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and that those who received the J&J vax may need a second shot, the New York Times reported. It should be noted that this study has yet to be published, has not been peer reviewed, and was done on blood samples in a lab (rather than on humans out in the real world), so it’s too soon to say if the research will stand up to scrutiny. Regardless, this update does give us enough reason to consider wearing masks indoors again, regardless of our vaccine status.
