COVID-19 vaccine-makers largely protected on side effects Pharmaceutical companies making COVID-19 vaccines are largely protected legally in the event of harmful side effects, like blood clots that have been linked to jabs from AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. Picture: 123rf.com 4 hours ago LONDON - Pharmaceutical companies making Covid vaccines are largely protected legally in the event of harmful side effects, like blood clots that have been linked to jabs from AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. However, while some governments will pay compensation due to sufferers, others assume it is the responsibility of the companies even after drugs agencies back the vaccines.