United States regulators have extended the shelf life of millions of Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccines by six weeks. A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) review concluded that the shots are safe and effective for at least 4½ months, the company said. The FDA originally authorised the single-shot vaccine for up to three months when stored in refrigerators of two to eight degrees Celsius. In a statement, Johnson & Johnson said the FDA’s decision was based on data from ongoing stability assessment studies. The European Medicines Agency has approved the storage of unopened vaccines in temperatures of minus two to minus eight degrees for up to three months.

Source: The Irish Times June 10, 2021 23:22 UTC