JUST IN → Health Canada has completed their independent review of the evidence and have found the Moderna bivalent vaccine for adults is safe and effective.

This bivalent vaccine is an adapted version of the original Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine that targets both the original strain and the Omicron BA.1 strain.

Here is a rundown of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI)’s recommendations →

• NACI strongly recommends that anyone over 12 years old that is at high risk of severe disease get a booster dose as soon as possible if 3 to 6 months since their last dose or infection has passed. Both the bivalent vaccine and the original vaccine can be offered.

• At risk individuals includes anyone that is: 
  • Over 65 years old
  • Moderately to severely immunocompromised
  • Residents of long-term care facilities or any other congregate living settings 
  • Suffering from an underlying medical condition that places them at high risk of severe COVID-19
  • From First Nations, Métis, or Inuit communities
  • Part of a racialized communities and/or marginalized communities
• Adults (18 years old and older) that are not at higher risk should also be offered a bivalent vaccine 3 to 6 months after their last dose or infection. However, if it is not readily available, an original mRNA booster should be offered to ensure timely protection.
• Studies on the differences between boosters are ongoing. However, you will be safer this fall and winter with a booster, any booster, than without one.

Check out NACI’s full recommendation here

Check out the NACI statement here

Check out Health Canada full announcement here