Health Canada says that there is no need to delay or wait for one vaccine over another when seeking your third/booster dose.
It says that it has determined all the vaccines currently approved are effective at reducing serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19.
Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are two mRNA COVID-19 vaccines approved by Health Canada. Both of these vaccines offer strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants.
Vaccines administered at York Region Public Health led COVID-19 clinics are based on the availability of vaccine supply, as distributed by the Federal and Provincial governments.
Due to the high demand for third doses, there is currently limited supply of the adult (12+) Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available in Canada. As a result, York Region Public Health is currently offering Moderna vaccine for residents age 30 and older to prioritize Pfizer-BioNTech for residents age 12 to 29, based on the guidance of Ontario’s Ministry of Health.
Both approved mRNA COVID-19 vaccines provide protection from the virus and drastically reduce the chance of hospitalization. This is even more important as the highly transmissible Omicron variant continues to surge in York Region communities.
A mixed series of Moderna and Pfizer-BioNtech vaccines are valid for the Ontario vaccine certificate and for travel.
York Region reminds residents that it is important to get vaccinated with a first, second and booster dose as soon as the vaccine is offered to you. Don’t put yourself at greater risk waiting for a particular brand.
More information on vaccine safety is available at york.ca/COVID19VaccineInfo
Individuals can book an appointment online by visiting york.ca/COVID19Vaccine or by calling Access York at 1-877-464-9675.
Booster dose appointment are also available at select pharmacies and through the provincial booking system.
