North Carolina Prepares For The Arrival Of A Third COVID-19 Vaccine

The federal government recently authorized the distribution of Johnson & Johnson's one-shot vaccine.

More than 80,000 of these doses are expected to arrive in North Carolina this week, beginning on Wednesday.

State health officials say like the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines currently in use, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine protects against virus-related hospitalization and death. Some studies show it's less effective in preventing moderate or mild COVID cases. 

There are possible side effects, such as a sore arm, fever, headache or feeling tired and achy for a day or two.

But what makes this latest vaccine different is that it's a single dose and doesn't require extreme cold storage.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says the increased supply will help to ensure equitable distribution and access to COVID-19 vaccines in communities across the state.

According to the agency, more than 2,100 new COVID-19 cases were recorded on Sunday and more than 1,400 were reported Monday.

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.

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