Johnson & Johnson booster generates 94% immune response against COVID-19

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – At first, the drug makers made it easy. It was a one-and-done shot in the arm. 

However, studies showed the vaccine was only 78 to 86% effective–a number lagging behind Moderna and Pfizer’s 94%. 

But now, Johnson and Johnson says–with a booster, two months post initial dose–the vaccine offers near equivalent protection as the others. 

“It’s consistent with what we’re seeing with Pfizer and Moderna as well,” Dr. Ram Yeleti, chief physician executive at Community Health Network, told News 8. The issue with J&J is its preliminary efficacy isn’t quite as high as Pfizer’s so getting a booster with J&J makes sense.”

In a statement Johnson and Johnson says in part:

“Our large real-world-evidence and Phase 3 studies confirm that the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine provides strong and long-lasting protection against COVID-19 hospitalizations. And, when a booster of the vaccine is given, the strength and protection against COVID-19 further increases.”

The statement goes on to say it is critical to prioritize protecting as many people as possible against hospital admissions and death given the continued spread of COVID-19.