High-risk Canadians are beginning to receive updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting the latest variants of the virus, such as the KP.2 subvariant of Omicron. Health Canada approved Pfizer and Moderna’s new mRNA vaccines for individuals aged six months and older, offering cross-protection against related variants like KP.3.1.1. Moderna’s Spikevax and Pfizer-BioNTech’s Comirnaty vaccines are now available for different age groups as of September 27, 2024. In Ontario, the vaccines are being distributed to high-risk populations through various healthcare providers and pharmacies, with a broader rollout planned for later dates.
Ontario and Yukon are prioritizing high-risk populations, including individuals aged 60 years and above and those living in long-term care facilities, for the distribution of the new COVID-19 vaccines. Manitoba is gearing up for a fall campaign starting on October 15, which will include vaccinations for flu, RSV, and COVID-19. New Brunswick has not provided a specific timeline for their rollout but is expected to share more information soon. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) strongly recommends the updated vaccines for individuals at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or severe COVID-19 illness, including seniors, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying medical conditions.
NACI also recommends the new COVID-19 vaccines for all individuals aged six months and older this fall, regardless of their risk status. Experts have warned of a potential surge in COVID-19 activity in Canada during the fall and winter seasons, emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated to protect against the virus. Older versions of the COVID-19 vaccine are no longer authorized or available for use, as Health Canada directed provinces and territories to dispose of remaining supplies before the new KP.2 formulations were shipped. The Novavax protein-based vaccine, targeting the JN.1 variant, has also been approved but is not being ordered by PHAC due to low demand.
While flu shots are already available through various healthcare sites like clinics, pharmacies, and nursing stations, the updated COVID-19 vaccines are being prioritized for high-risk populations and frontline workers. In Yukon, health centres will start offering both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to the general population beginning on October 15, with a wider rollout planned for November 1st. Manitoba’s health minister will share more details about their fall campaign, which includes preparations for flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Despite concerns about a potential increase in COVID-19 cases, experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to protect individuals through the upcoming fall and winter months.
