Merck to help produce rival Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine
- Share via
WASHINGTON — Drugmaker Merck & Co. will help produce rival Johnson & Johnson’s newly approved COVID-19 shot in an effort to expand the nation’s vaccine supply more quickly, a Biden administration official confirmed Tuesday.
The announcement comes as the White House looks to speed the production of the single-dose vaccine. Officials have said Johnson & Johnson faced unexpected production issues with its vaccine and produced only 3.9 million doses ahead of its receiving emergency-use authorization Saturday. The company says it is on pace to deliver 100 million doses by the end of June.
The assistance from Merck was expected to help Johnson & Johnson meet its production commitments and expand supply even further, but the administration did not immediately provide specifics.
President Biden is set to highlight the development in a speech Tuesday afternoon. The official confirmed Merck’s involvement on condition of anonymity ahead of Biden’s public announcement.
The news was first reported by the Washington Post.
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
