Provinces and territories have begun distributing newly updated COVID-19 vaccines to safeguard individuals against the virus. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada’s immunization guide, these vaccines have proven effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death, as well as reducing the risk of long COVID.
The latest mRNA vaccines approved by Health Canada this autumn are Moderna’s, suitable for individuals aged six months and older, and Pfizer-BioNTech’s, available for those aged five and above. Both vaccines are considered comparable by infectious disease experts.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends that all adults aged 65 and older, including those previously vaccinated, should receive the COVID-19 vaccine due to their heightened susceptibility. It is also advised for individuals six months and older who fall into specific categories, such as residents of long-term care facilities, those with underlying medical conditions at higher risk, pregnant individuals, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis community members, healthcare workers, care providers, and individuals from marginalized communities.
Individuals aged six months and above, regardless of their risk level, may opt to receive an updated COVID vaccine if desired, according to the national advisory group.
Ontario has initiated the distribution of COVID vaccines to priority groups like residents of long-term care homes, with other provinces and territories set to follow suit in the upcoming weeks.
This year’s updated vaccines include LP.8.1, a derivative of the Omicron variant. Dr. Donald Vinh, an infectious diseases specialist at McGill University Health Centre, stated that the updated vaccine is effective against current circulating strains and can substantially increase antibody levels compared to not receiving the vaccine, offering crucial protection against hospitalization and mortality.
The majority of Canadians can access COVID vaccines at no cost, with the exceptions being Alberta, which charges $100, and Quebec, where the fee ranges from $150 to $180 for individuals outside the provinces’ high-risk groups.
COVID shots are available at pharmacies, public health clinics, and some family physicians’ offices. Updates on vaccine availability and distribution can be found on the respective provincial and territorial websites.