Nation Eli Lilly and Johnson & Johnson have paused COVID-19 vaccine trials. Why experts say that’s reassuring, not frightening. October 13, 2020 Karen Weintraub and Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY Comments Off on Eli Lilly and Johnson & Johnson have paused COVID-19 vaccine trials. Why experts say that’s reassuring, not frightening. Experts say the recent pause on COVID-19 vaccine and treatment trials aren't unusual, but rather show scientific safety processes are working.