For many people, COVID-19 vaccination is straightforward. For others, the decision to get vaccinated can involve more questions and considerations.
COVID-19 vaccines are available in different forms, including mRNA and protein-based options. While both are authorized in Canada, they use different approaches to help the body build protection against COVID-19.
Healthcare needs can also vary from person to person. Some individuals may not build as strong an immune response, while others may have medical considerations that affect which vaccines are most appropriate for them.
That’s why having different vaccine options available can matter.
Why COVID-19 Protection Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
For people who are immunocompromised, COVID-19 protection can involve additional considerations.
Factors such as organ transplantation, cancer treatment, autoimmune conditions, or medications that affect the immune system may influence how the body responds to vaccination or what vaccine options are considered.
As Jessica Hall, a patient living with Stevens-Johnson syndrome, explains:
“While mRNA vaccines seem to be effective for many people, there are those of us who cannot take them, which leaves us vulnerable. Having access to vaccine options, such as the protein-based alternative, would help ensure that people like me are protected against COVID-19.”
Offering vaccine choice can help improve access and confidence. For many in the immunocompromised community, it is not just about having access to vaccination, but having options that can support individualized care and informed decision-making.
What’s available in Canada?
In Canada, provinces and territories decide which COVID-19 vaccines are offered through public programs. Most are currently focused on mRNA vaccines as part of their ongoing vaccination strategies.
Although Nuvaxovid, a protein-based option, is approved by Health Canada, availability may vary depending on provincial and territorial vaccine programs.
At the same time, national guidance from Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) indicates that both mRNA and protein-based COVID-19 vaccines can be used in authorized age groups. This creates a gap between what is recommended at a national level and what is available in practice.
What you can do
Patient experiences and community perspectives play an important role in conversations about healthcare access and vaccine policy.
If you would like to learn more about COVID-19 vaccines or support conversations around vaccine access and choice, you can:
- Talk to a healthcare provider to learn more about available vaccine options
- Visit our Resource Hub to find educational tools
- Read and share our letter to the Government of Canada advocating for expanded access to COVID-19 vaccine options
- Contact your Member of Parliament (MP) or provincial representative to share your experience
