THUNDER BAY -- The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is switching to Moderna's SpikeVax as its primary vaccine moving forward.
The health unit on Wednesday said the move will be made mainly due to supply issues with the Pfizer vaccine in Ontario, with no future deliveries scheduled at this time.
The change is effective immediately.
Pfizer's vaccine will still used for those 12 to 30.
Dr. Janet DeMille, the medical officer of health at the health unit, said the public should have no worries about switching to Moderna.
“There are no issues with receiving Moderna for first, second, or booster doses,” DeMille said. “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.”
There is no supply issue with Pfizer's pediatric vaccine, used on individuals aged five to 11.
DeMille said there is no supply issue with Moderna and the health unit does not anticipate having issues meeting demand.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.
