An expert panel convened by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday endorsedthe coronavirus vaccine produced by the drugmaker Johnson & Johnson.
Speaking earlier in the day during a visit to Fresno County, Gov. Gavin Newsom said the availability of that third vaccine could speed up Californiaâs timeline for providing shots.
Following strong criticism from disability advocates, the state said that starting March 15, people ages 16-64 who have disabilities or health conditions that put them at higher risk, will be eligible for vaccinations based on the “clinical judgment” of health care providers.
Speaking to reporters, the governor indicated that date may now be moved up even farther.
I’m not sure we want to wait till March 15th,â Newsom said. âThe reason we’re feeling we can do that is we have a preview into increased allocations, particularly J & J, that give us confidence in that ability to be more flexible in terms of moving that date forward to accommodate those unique needs of unique individuals that are struggling with those comorbidities.â
California has administered more than 8 million coronavirus vaccine doses, and Newsom said the state is rapidly increasing its capacity. Eleven new vaccination sites opened in the Central Valley this week.
Newsom said he expects more than 300,000 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to arrive in California next week.
âTake the shot when itâs your turn,â he said. âGet any of these shots, itâs going to save lives.â
â Kevin Stark
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