COVID-19 boosters update - December 7, 2021
As announced today, eligibility for COVID-19 booster doses have been updated and expanded. Below are some important answers to common questions you may have about boosters.
Do I need a booster shot to be fully vaccinated under the Proof of Full COVID-19 Vaccination policy directive?
No, boosters are NOT included in the scope of requirements for the Proof of Full COVID-19 Vaccination policy directive for SHA team members.
Why is it important to get a booster dose?
Studies show that over time individuals may experience waning immunity due to factors like age or underlying conditions that impact the body’s ability to mount a strong immune response to the vaccines. Fully vaccinated individuals are also at-risk of potential breakthrough infections based on the rate of community transmission.
Electing to receive a booster dose may increase your long-term immune response and provide further protection against COVID-19 transmission. It will decrease the risk of contracting COVID-19 and, if you do contract COVID-19, will reduce the risk that you become seriously ill.
Do I need a booster if I already had a third/travel/booster dose?
No, you already have the benefit that the booster would provide and do not need it at this time.
Will a booster protect me against COVID-19 variants of concern?
The COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in Canada are highly effective in reducing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 and its known variants. Over time your body’s protection against COVID-19 decreases, and the booster shot helps to boost your defense against COVID-19 and the Delta variant.
Will a booster protect me against the Omicron variant, or should I wait until more information is known?
It is not yet known what effect vaccines and boosters will have on the Omicron variant, studies are underway. However, it is not advised to wait to receive a booster once you are eligible, particularly for the most vulnerable portions of the population. Boosters do provide protection against the Delta variant, which is the most widespread variant of concern, and will most likely help protect against Omicron.
Read the full announcement on the expansion of booster eligibility here, and for more information and tools on vaccines be sure to visit the COVID-19 Vaccine Communications Toolkit.