Merck to help make Johnson & Johnson's single-shot Covid-19 vaccine: Report

US-based Merck halted the development of two of its own coronavirus vaccines in January to instead focus on its two Covid-19 treatments.

Merck & Co Inc will help make rival Johnson & Johnson's single-shot Covid-19 vaccine, the Washington Post reported on Tuesday, citing senior officials from the Biden administration.

The Merck logo is seen at a gate to the Merck & Co campus in Linden, New Jersey, US. (REUTERS)

President Joe Biden is expected to make the announcement on Tuesday, the report said.

US-based Merck halted the development of two of its own coronavirus vaccines in January to instead focus on its two Covid-19 treatments.

The company said last month that it was in talks with governments and companies to potentially help with manufacturing of Covid-19 vaccines that have been authorized.

The drugmaker will dedicate two US facilities to Johnson & Johnson's vaccine, according to the report.

"Merck remains steadfast in our commitment to contribute to the global response to the pandemic," the company said.

J&J did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.