Why rushing COVID-19 booster shots for everyone could do more harm than good – CBC

Canada should help vaccinate world first and wait for doses that target variants, say experts

Sep 04, 2021

Canadians may be eager to get a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine to further protect themselves in the fourth wave, but the lack of evidence in favour of booster shots for the general public and the desperate need for vaccines worldwide should give us pause.

The World Health Organization recently called for a moratorium on boosters until at least the end of September, but rich countries are forging ahead with plans for additional doses now regardless — including parts of Canada.

Israel has made third doses of COVID-19 available to everyone aged 30 or older, while the U.S. plans to offer boosters to anyone eight months out from their second shot on Sept. 20.

Other wealthy nations with ample vaccine supply have taken a slightly more nuanced approach, with France, Germany and the U.K. announcing third doses only for vulnerable populations at heightened risk of declining COVID-19 immunity.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/canada-covid-19-booster-shots-3rd-dose-1.6164614