Canadian COVID-19 Booster Uptake Drops Sharply as Provincial Funding Changes Loom
Canadian health officials are raising concerns about declining COVID-19 booster shot uptake, particularly among vulnerable populations, as the country marks five years since the pandemic began. The situation is becoming more urgent as vaccine funding transitions from federal to provincial control.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada's June 2024 data, only 18% of the general population received the Omicron XBB.1.5 variant booster. Even among those 80 and older, traditionally the highest-uptake group, rates have fallen to 62% [1].
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) maintains specific recommendations for different population groups:
- Two doses annually for those 80+, long-term care residents, and immunocompromised individuals
- One annual dose for those 65-79, pregnant individuals, healthcare workers, and those with underlying conditions
- Optional boosters for the general population
'We see that the protection is needed most for those who are at highest risk of COVID-19 severe disease,' explains Matthew Tunis, NACI's executive secretary [1].
A significant policy shift is occurring in 2025, as COVID-19 vaccine funding responsibility transfers from the federal government to provinces and territories. While bulk procurement will continue through federal channels, individual jurisdictions will determine booster availability and eligibility [2].
The Northwest Territories has committed to universal access, stating they 'would not turn anyone away.' However, most provinces and territories are still reviewing their fall 2025 vaccination plans [3].
Current data for the latest Omicron KP.2 subvariant booster is unavailable, but experts fear uptake remains low. The virus continues to circulate year-round, unlike seasonal influenza, with immunity typically waning after six months [1].