For information on COVID-19 vaccines, please see the Government of Canada’s website.
Why is there a new COVID-19 vaccine?
A new formulation of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine contains an XBB.1.5-variant of the COVID-19 virus. This new formulation is expected to provide a better immune response against currently circulating variants compared to vaccines previously used.
How do the Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty and Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccines work?
This vaccine tells your body’s cells to make “spike proteins” that are like those on the virus that causes COVID-19. These spike proteins do not cause COVID-19 and are removed from your body soon after they are formed. Your immune system will respond to the spike proteins by making antibodies that help to fight infection, if the COVID-19 virus gets into your body. The vaccine does not contain the virus and so it cannot give you COVID-19. The Pfizer-BioNtech Comirnaty and Moderna Spikevax vaccines have been tested to ensure they meet safety standards and have been licensed and approved by Health Canada.
How does the Novavax Nuvaxovid vaccine work?
The Novavax Nuvaxovid vaccine is the first recombinant protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine authorized for use in Canada. The vaccine contains the “spike protein” and an adjuvant. The spike proteins are specific to the virus that causes COVID-19. An adjuvant is an ingredient added to boost a person’s immune response. Your immune system will respond to the spike proteins by making antibodies that will fight off infection. Your new antibodies will break down the spike proteins and get rid of them. These new antibodies will protect you from illness if you are exposed to the COVID-19 virus. The vaccine does not contain the virus and so it cannot give you COVID-19.The Novavax Nuvaxovid vaccine has been tested in large clinical trials to ensure it has met safety standards and has been licensed and approved by Health Canada.
How many doses of the vaccine are required?
A primary series consists of two doses given at least 8 weeks apart (3 doses for individuals who are immunocompromised). An additional dose is also available for individuals based on eligibility.
What are the side effects of the vaccine?
For more information please visit: COVID-19: Vaccine safety and side effects – Canada.ca.
Common vaccine side effects may include:
| Symptoms at the injection side, such as: | More general symptoms, such as: |
| – Redness
– Soreness – Swelling |
– Chills
– Fatigue – Joint pain – Headache – Mild fever – Muscle aches |
Symptoms typically resolve in 24-48 hours. If you develop symptoms after receiving your vaccine that persist, speak to your primary care provider.
Why is pericarditis/myocarditis a concern with some COVID-19 vaccines?
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle and pericarditis is inflammation of the lining around the heart. There have been very rare reports of myocarditis/pericarditis in Canada within the 12-29 age group when receiving certain COVID-19 vaccine products. Reported cases have been mild and individuals have recovered quickly. Speak to your health care provider if you fall within this age group and have concerns.
Who should not receive the vaccine?
You should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine if you have:
- a history of anaphylaxis after previous administration of any COVID-19 vaccine
- an immediate or anaphylactic hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine. To view components in each COVID-19 vaccine, refer to the product monographs for each product.
If you have a fever or you are feeling, unwell you should talk to a healthcare professional or defer your vaccine until you are feeling better, and your fever has resolved. If you have had a recent COVID-19 infection, it is recommended to wait six months before receiving another COVID-19 vaccine.
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I had COVID-19?
It is possible that people will get COVID-19 before getting their COVID-19 vaccine. At the very least, people need to wait until they have fully recovered before getting their next dose. Public health recommends waiting 6 months after a known COVID-19 infection to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Please speak to your health care provider to get the best advice on when to get your next vaccine dose after a COVID-19 infection.
What vaccine will I receive for my next dose?
Both Moderna and Pfizer vaccine products are safe, effective and interchangeable. Supply of a certain product may vary based on clinic/location. If you have questions related to specific vaccine availability, speak to your local public health office or pharmacist for more information.
I am moderately to severely immunocompromised, how many doses of vaccine should I receive?
Immunocompromised individuals who have never received COVID-19 vaccine should initially receive 3 doses. Individuals can receive additional doses six months following their last dose.
Who should receive the Novavax vaccine, Nuvaxovid?
Nuvaxovid vaccine may be offered to individuals 12 years of age without contraindications to the vaccine who are unable or unwilling to receive an mRNA vaccine. To book an appointment for Nuvaxovid, please contact your zone:
| Eastern | 1-833-951-3884 |
| Western | 1-833-703-5470 |
| Central | 1-833-961-3749 |
| Labrador-Grenfell | 1-833-960-3643 |
What COVID-19 vaccines are currently available in Canada?
For more information on Health Canada approved vaccines, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.
Who is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and how can I get an appointment?
Visit the Time For The Shot Homepage to determine who is currently eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment and how to book.
Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?
COVID-19 vaccines will only be used in Newfoundland and Labrador if they are approved by Health Canada, and the evidence shows that they are safe, effective, of good quality, and demonstrates that the benefits of using it outweighs the risks. For more information on Health Canada’s review process for COVID-19 vaccines, please see the Government of Canada’s website.
I am not a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, am I eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine while I am in this province?
The vaccine will be made available, free of cost, for anyone in Newfoundland and Labrador that meets vaccine eligibility requirements, regardless of their immigration and/or residency status. This includes refugee claimants, migrant workers, international students, dependent children of temporary residents, temporary foreign workers, undocumented residents, and residents with lapsed legal status.
I received a COVID-19 product outside of Canada and the vaccine I received is not approved in Canada. What should I do for my next dose?
If you had a complete course/series of a non-Health Canada authorized vaccine, the addition of one dose of mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) is expected to optimize protection. If it has been 6 months since your last dose or 6 months since COVID-19 infection you are eligible to receive another dose of vaccine. Please keep your COVID-19 vaccine record from another country, and bring to your next appointment.
I received a COVID-19 vaccination at a Public Health Clinic. Can I go to my local Pharmacy or Physicians office for my next dose?
Based on eligibility immunizations can be provided through public health, pharmacies, or physician offices. Please contact your healthcare provider for more information.
Should I get the vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
NACI continues to strongly recommend that people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should receive COVID-19 vaccine as they are at increased risk of COVID-19 related complications.
What product will a child receive?
The XBB.1.5 containing vaccine is authorized for individuals aged 6 months and older. Eligible individuals will receive this vaccine.
Where can I find product monographs?
Resources for Health Care Professionals
When can I get another COVID-19 vaccine?
If you are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine in Spring 2024 (see Time for the Shot homepage for eligibility), it is recommended that you wait at least six months since your last COVID-19 vaccine before getting the updated vaccine for best results. There may be situations where a shorter interval is recommended; please consult your health care provider for advice.