By: Thomas I. Likness
EBC News Service

(Eagle News) — Canada has another Covid-19 vaccine in its arsenal to fight the virus — the Janssen vaccine manufactured by Johnson & Johnson, Health Canada announced Friday.

“There are now four safe and effective vaccines approved by independent regulators in Canada,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, following the announcement.

The single-dose inoculant has less stringent storage requirements than other vaccines.

“It can be stored and transported at regular refrigerated temperatures of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, which makes it easier to distribute across the country,” Trudeau noted.

The vaccine is approved for us for anyone over the age of 18, including seniors.

Health Canada has been studying the vaccine since November 30.

“The Janssen Covid-19 vaccine was 66% effective in preventing symptomatic Covid-19, beginning two weeks after vaccination,” said Health Canada in a statement.

Trudeau reassured Canadians the government is still on track to have vaccines available for everyone who wants one by the end of September.

““Your turn is coming. Millions of doses are on the way, deliveries have been ramping up, and they’ll ramp up even more in April,” said the prime minister. “We will continue to work around the clock, and make sure Canadians get vaccinated as quickly as possible.”

A delivery schedule has not been finalized.

Procurement Minister Anita Arnand said the earliest Canada can expect to receive any doses is April.
(Eagle News Service)