Photo for illustrative purposes. NATIONAL NEWS - The planned phased rollout of the Covid-19 vaccination programme in South Africa will continue with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in mid-February, according to the National Health Department. The vaccine is yet to be officially authorised by the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra). Deputy Director-General of Health Dr Anban Pillay said on Monday 8 February that the first of these vaccines should arrive at the end of the week. A trial conducted on thousands of South African participants showed the vaccine to be effective in preventing deaths and hospitalisation. Other advantages are that it is a single dose vaccine and can be stored in a fridge.