With the rise of coughs, sneezes, and fevers in the wake of respiratory illness season, the Government of Canada has recently released three new optional mRNA COVID-19 boosters to manage the threat of the COVID-19 virus. These boosters include the Moderna Spikevax, Pfizer-BioNtech Comirnaty, and Novavax Nuvaxovid. Although the imminent threat of the virus has significantly decreased since the Pandemic, government vaccine advisors recommend regular boosters to limit the spread of the illness and to protect others.
According to the provincial government, immunization appointments began on Oct. 14, 2025, for those who are immunocompromised, such as infants, seniors (65+), Indigenous peoples (six months of age and older), pregnant people, as well as those working in healthcare or essential services.
The Moderna Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine comes in three variants, including the BA.1, BA. ⅘, and the XBB.1.5 subvariant.
The Omicron BA.1 has been engineered for individuals six months and older, and as a booster for those aged 12 and above. The Omicron BA. ⅘ is approved for children who are six and up and the subvariant, Omicron XBB.1.5, is approved as a booster for those who have been previously vaccinated.
Although most Canadians have received their COVID-19 shots, Health Canada has stated that it is essential to continue receiving boosters as they are approved, to protect against viruses that adapt and evolve. The boosters that have been released this past fall include LP.8.1, a segment of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, which has a fourfold increase in antibody levels.
Aside from the addition of L.P.8.1, the vaccines include human-safe ingredients such as acetic acid, cholesterol and sucrose. According to the Government of Canada website, Canadians can expect to experience temporary side effects that may last from hours to a few days post-vaccination. Symptoms at the site of injection may include redness, soreness, and swelling, whereas general symptoms are similar to those of a common cold. Extreme symptoms may include cardiovascular complications such as myocarditis and pericarditis, difficulty breathing, and abdominal pain.
Public health officials have disclosed the extensive safety monitoring process required for vaccines to be used and distributed, stating that Health Canada approves vaccines to ensure they can prevent the transmission and spread of the virus. The responsibility of safety monitoring is shared between Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada, which includes the oversight of: the public, the vaccine industry, health care professionals, and provincial, territorial, and local public health authorities.
The new boosters are free. Canadians who choose to get vaccinated can register on the Government of British Columbia website by providing a legal last name, date of birth, postal code, personal health number, and either an email address or phone number that can receive text messages.
Vaccination registration can also be scheduled over the phone at 1-833-838-2323.