Some changes to the vaccine dose you may receive in Thunder Bay.

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) is switching to providing primarily Moderna doses to people 30 years of age or older for their first, second, and third doses at the CLE Coliseum Clinic and TBDHU-run clinics in the district.

This move is effective immediately.

This is because supplies of the adult Pfizer vaccine (aged 12 and up) are currently limited in Canada and no further deliveries of the vaccine are being distributed at this time in Ontario. We are not expecting more information on the Pfizer vaccine distribution until January.

TBDHU is also engaging with health care partners, including those in District and First Nation communities, and adopting similar direction for other clinics.

“There are no issues with receiving Moderna for first, second, or booster doses,” said Dr. Janet DeMille, Medical Officer of Health. “In fact, there is some indication that Moderna induces a stronger immune response and may provide longer protection. I strongly encourage everyone to get the vaccine as soon as they can, and to get Moderna even if they have previously received Pfizer vaccine.”

This does not affect the pediatric Pfizer vaccine used for 5 to 11 year olds.

Supplies of the Moderna vaccine are still consistent locally.