South Africa says downpayments to J&J, Pfizer not refundable

CAPE TOWN - The South African government's downpayments to Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and Pfizer for COVID-19 vaccines are not refundable under any circumstances, its health minister said on Wednesday, describing the condition as onerous.

Zweli Mkhize made the comments a day after the government suspended the rollout of J&J's vaccine, citing a recommendation by U.S. federal health agencies to pause its use because of rare cases of blood clots. The suspension is the latest setback for South Africa's efforts to immunise its population.