Any delay would be a further blow to the EU’s vaccination plans, which have been hampered by bumpy supplies from other vaccine makers and a slow rollout of shots in many member states.
J&J told the EU last week that issues with the supply of vaccine ingredients and equipment meant it was “under stress” to meet the goal of delivering 55 million doses by the end of June, the EU official – who is directly involved in confidential talks with the U.S. company – told Reuters on condition of anonymity.
The official added the company had said it was not impossible to meet the goal, but that it showed caution. J&J’s vaccine, which requires only one dose for protection, is expected to be approved on 11 March for use in the EU by the bloc’s regulator. EU officials have said deliveries could start in April.
The company has committed to deliver 200 million doses of its vaccine to the bloc this year. “Aligned with our agreement, we expect to begin supplying our commitment of 200…