Johnson and Johnson Covid-19 vaccine 85% effective against severe illness

Drugmaker Johnson & Johnson reported topline efficacy and safety data from a Phase three clinical trial on its single-dose Covid-19 vaccine on Friday, stating the drug had met all primary and key secondary endpoints.

Johnson & Johnson said topline safety and efficacy data, based on 43,783 participants accruing 468 symptomatic cases of Covid-19, indicated a single dose was 85% effective at preventing severe illnesses and 66% effective in preventing both moderate and severe diseases.

No major side effects from the vaccine were reported, including severe allergic reactions.

Chief executive Alex Gorsky said: "Johnson & Johnson embarked on the global effort to combat the Covid-19 pandemic a year ago, and has brought the full force of our capabilities, as well as tremendous public-private partnerships, to enable the development of a single-shot vaccine. Our goal all along has been to create a simple, effective solution for the largest number of people possible, and to have maximum impact to help end the pandemic.

"We're proud to have reached this critical milestone and our commitment to address this global health crisis continues with urgency for everyone, everywhere."

However, the vaccine's efficacy against a variant of Covid-19 originating in South Africa was seen as somewhat of a concern after Moderna stated its vaccine appeared to be less effective against the variant and a study from Pfizer also suggested a less robust response.

Johnson & Johnson, which developed the vaccine in conjunction with Janssen Pharmaceuticals, will apply for emergency use authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration as early as next week.

As of 1350 GMT, Johnson & Johnson shares were down 3.59% in pre-market trading at $163.08 each.