COVID-19 - Information about the Vaccines
Vaccines in PEI
Prince Edward Island will have a supply of the updated COVID-19 vaccines based on the Omicron XBB.1.5 variant. The new formulations are a better match for the types of strains currently in circulation.
- Moderna SpikevaxTM XBB.1.5 vaccine (approved for 6 months of age and older)
- Pfizer-BioNTech ComirnatyTM XBB.1.5 vaccine (approved for 6 months of age and older)
- Novavax Nuvaxoid XBB.1.5 vaccine (approved for 12 years of age and older)
Vaccine Approval
It is important to note that all COVID-19 vaccines, regardless of the manufacturer, are following the same process and protocols for approval – no steps have been skipped in the process for reviewing and approving these vaccines. Only vaccines that undergo the rigorous assessment and approval by Health Canada can be offered in Canada.
Vaccine Safety
Like all vaccines, Health Canada reviews the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines that will be used throughout the country. A vaccine must go through this process successfully before it can be used.
Like all other provinces and territories, Prince Edward Island will receive vaccines from several manufacturers and each vaccine will have to go through the same approval process. Since they are new, the COVID-19 vaccines will undergo more rigorous monitoring for any reactions or adverse events.
Vaccine Side-Effects
Like with other vaccines, side-effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are expected and are similar to what you may experience with other others, such as the influenza vaccine (flu shot).
People who receive the vaccine may experience mild or moderate side-effects such as pain where the vaccine was injected, tiredness, muscle aches, headache, chills or a mild fever as the body begins to respond to the vaccine and build immunity.
Vaccine Rollout
COVID-19 vaccines are available to all PEI residents 6 months of age and older. If it has been six months since your last dose of vaccine or COVID-19 infection, it is recommended that individuals get a dose of COVID-19 vaccine in the fall of 2023.
COVID-19 Vaccination Records
Individuals who receive their COVID-19 vaccine in PEI and who wish to have a copy of their COVID-19 vaccine record can access a digital copy online.
What is the Vaccine Injury Support Program?
The Vaccine Injury Support Program (VISP) is a no-fault program that provides compensation for anyone vaccinated in Canada (except Quebec) who has experienced a serious and permanent injury as a result of receiving any Health Canada authorized vaccine after December 8, 2020.
More information can be found at the following link:
https://vaccineinjurysupport.ca/en