The authorization of a third COVID-19 vaccine, from Johnson & Johnson (J&J), is significant news in the fight against the pandemic.

The vaccine provides full protection after a single dose, unlike the two doses required for the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. This means no follow-up visits or appointments will be needed for those receiving the J&J vaccine.

The vaccine was created based on viral vector technology, which is the same technology proven to be safe and effective in other vaccines, such as the Ebola vaccine. The vaccine does not infect individuals with a live virus and does not contain any fetal cells.

The Merced County Department of Public Health, the Central California Alliance for Health (Alliance), and our local healthcare provider community urge everyone to get vaccinated, no matter the vaccine, when they become eligible and the vaccine is available. All three vaccine options have been deemed effective in preventing hospitalizations and death from COVID-19.

“This pandemic has greatly affected our community and we want to minimize any further effects by encouraging everyone to get vaccinated. If you are in an eligible tier, do not wait for a specific vaccine and place yourself or those you love at-risk of contracting or spreading the virus,” said Dr. Salvador Sandoval, County Health Officer.

A list for this week’s upcoming County clinics:

Residents are encouraged to visit finder.vaccinatemercedcounty.com to search for other vaccine clinic availability in the County. Anyone who doesn’t have access to a computer or internet can call the Public Health Information Line at 209-381-1180 to request notifications for future vaccine clinic appointments (on a first come, first served basis).