London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

J&J unit Janssen Pharmaceutica NV has entered into a deal with the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT) to deliver up to 400 million doses of its single-dose shot through 2022. These supplies will help the continent reach its target of vaccinating at least 60% of the population, as it tries to contain the spread of the virus. 

Professor Peter Piot, Director of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, reacts:

“I’m thrilled at this agreement between J&J and the African Union which is a game-changing moment in Africa’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Combined with the vaccines supplied through COVAX for low and middle income countries, this deal should ensure all African adults will receive a COVID19 vaccine.

"While fantastic news for Africans, saving lives and livelihoods throughout the continent, it is also a vital deal for the rest of the world. The pandemic is not over until it’s over everywhere.

"I hope this agreement is a catalyst for further action that ensures fair and equitable access to successful COVID-19 vaccines, one of the most urgent issues we face in this pandemic.”