Infectious disease specialists are urging Canadian seniors to get their updated COVID-19 vaccines as fall approaches. These updated mRNA shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, newly approved by Health Canada, specifically target the emerging LP.8.1 variant—a descendant of Omicron closely monitored by the WHO CP24.
Dr. Isaac Bogoch, speaking with CTV News, emphasizes that COVID-19 “can still be a very serious illness,” particularly for seniors and immunocompromised individuals, even when it may seem to have receded from public attention CP24. The updated vaccines reflect a shift toward treating COVID-19 similarly to influenza: annual immunization aligned with circulating strains CP24.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends:
- Two doses per year for those aged 80 and older, residents of long-term care facilities, and moderately to severely immunocompromised individuals.
- One dose per year for adults aged 65 to 79, health-care workers, and others at higher risk of serious illness CP24.
Dr. Bogoch points out that real-world data clearly shows who is most vulnerable:
“We have publicly available epidemiology for this virus in Canada… who is overwhelmingly getting hospitalized … dying … — it really is people over the age of 65 and especially those over the age of 80.” CP24
Why This Matters for Seniors
1. High Risk of Severe Outcomes
Seniors, particularly those over 65 and even more so over 80, face substantially higher risks of hospitalization, long-term complications, and death from COVID-19. Despite a sense of pandemic fatigue, the threat remains real—updated vaccines are the most effective defense.
2. Tailored Protection Against New Variants
By targeting the LP.8.1 variant, the new vaccines are designed to counteract the virus most likely to circulate this fall—making them more effective than outdated formulations CP24.
3. Alignment with Annual Immunization Strategy
Shifting to an annual COVID-19 vaccine model mirrors the flu vaccination strategy—providing ongoing, strain-specific protection and building a sustainable framework for long-term pandemic management CP24.
4. Reliable Guidance from National Authorities
NACI’s recommendation of one or two doses annually provides clear, evidence-based direction tailored to age and risk category, helping seniors navigate vaccine decisions confidently CP24.
5. Minimizing Hospitalization and Preserving Health
Since the vast majority of severe COVID-19 outcomes in Canada are among those aged 65+, vaccination remains the best tool to preserve health, maintain independence, and reduce the burden on healthcare systems CP24.
Final Takeaway
For Canadian seniors, especially those 65 and older, staying current with the updated COVID-19 vaccine isn’t just wise—it’s imperative. The virus continues to pose a significant threat, and the newly approved, variant-specific vaccines offer robust, timely protection. Following NACI’s plan ensures improved defenses while following safer, more sustainable public health practices.
Let me know if you’d like help finding local vaccination clinics, understanding side effects, or coordinating with other fall immunizations like flu or RSV!
