Vaccine Supply Changes
As the COVID-19 booster campaign ramps up, the Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) is switching to providing primarily Moderna vaccine (SpikeVax) to individuals 30 years of age and older for first, second and third doses at the CLE Coliseum clinic in Thunder Bay and in TBDHU-run clinics in the District. This is effective immediately.
This comes about because supplies of the adult (12+) Pfizer vaccine (Comirnaty) are limited in Canada and no further vaccine is being distributed currently in Ontario. Further information on supply of adult Pfizer is not expected until January.
TBDHU is also engaging with health care partners, including those in District and First Nation communities, and adopting similar direction for other clinics. Current TBDHU inventory of the adult (12+) Pfizer vaccine will be maintained for individuals 12 to 30 years of age, inclusive, as the use of Pfizer is preferred for this age group.
“There are no issues with receiving Moderna for first, second, or booster doses. In fact, there is some indication that Moderna induces a stronger immune response and may provide longer protection. I strongly encourage everyone to get the vaccine as soon as they can, and to get Moderna even if they have previously received Pfizer vaccine.”
said Dr. Janet DeMille, Medical Officer of Health.
This issue does not affect the pediatric Pfizer vaccine, which is used for 5 to 11 year-olds. Supplies of this vaccine are stable provincially and locally.
There are no supply issues with Moderna and TBDHU is not anticipating any challenges in getting needed amounts. Both Pfizer and Moderna are mRNA vaccines. The National Advisory Committee on Immunizations (NACI) has advised that the mRNA vaccines can be used interchangeably, and individuals are encouraged to get whichever booster is available because they both provide protection, and waiting for a preferred vaccine could put their health and their families at risk.
Visit TBDHU.com for more information.
