Health Canada approves updated Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Bluesky
• Share on X
• Copy Link

The agency is still reviewing Pfizer’s updated mRNA vaccine, Comirnaty, and has said a decision is expected soon.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

Novavax has touted its protein-based formulation as an alternative to the two mRNA vaccines. It is approved for adults and for children 12 years and older.

Nuvaxovid’s product monograph says the vaccine has not yet been evaluated for safety and efficacy in children under 12.

The updated Moderna vaccine is approved for much younger children, starting at six months of age, as well as adults.

One dose of Nuvaxovid will be administered to people who have previously received a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series, at least six months after their last shot.

For people who have not been previously vaccinated against COVID-19, Nuvaxovid will be given in two doses, three weeks apart.

In May, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization issued guidance for use of updated COVID-19 vaccines this fall, pending their approval by Health Canada.

In that guidance, NACI strongly recommended updated COVID-19 vaccinations for all adults 65 and older, people living in long-term care and other group living settings, people with underlying conditions that put them at higher risk of severe illness, people from Indigenous and racialized communities, and those who are pregnant or who provide essential community services.

NACI also said all other adults and children six months or older should also be eligible for an updated COVID-19 vaccination this fall.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada’s most recent wastewater measurements, the level of COVID-19 virus across the country is moderate. Flu and RSV viral activity is currently low.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 19, 2024.

Canadian Press health coverage receives support through a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. CP is solely responsible for this content.

Nicole Ireland, The Canadian Press