COVID-19 Approved Vaccines

For information on the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, including ingredients, how it works, how it's given, possible side effects and vaccine safety, visit the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine: What you should know page.

On May 5, 2021, Health Canada authorized the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in children 12 to 15 years of age. See the COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility page for more information on how to book an immunization appointment.

For information on the Moderna vaccine, including ingredients, how it works, how it's given, possible side effects and vaccine safety, visit the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine: What you should know page.

For information on the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine, including ingredients, how it works, possible side effects and vaccine safety, visit the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine: What you should know page.

Interchangeability of mRNA Vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna)

Individuals now have more flexibility to receive different mRNA vaccines for their first and second doses. This will support individuals in getting fully immunized more quickly and conveniently by giving them more options. This will also help offset issues related to vaccine supply and delivery.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) and Ontario Ministry of Health have recently confirmed that a mixed vaccine schedule for the COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and will complete the vaccine series. This means that individuals who received a first dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) can receive a different mRNA vaccine for their second dose.

The option of mixing of vaccines for individuals to complete the two dose series is reasonable given the similarity of these vaccines in their mechanism of action, side effect profile and high effectiveness against COVID-19 and its variants, including the Delta variant. At this time, the mixed schedule does not apply to youth 12 to 17 years for whom only Pfizer is approved.

Individuals are encouraged to get their second dose as soon as they are able, and to get the vaccine available at the clinic most convenient for them, regardless of which mRNA vaccine that it is offered at that clinic. TBDHU will provide information on what vaccine is available at clinics; however, vaccine availability may change depending on vaccine supply and delivery schedules.

Read more in the Ministry of Health's A Safe and Effective Second Dose (PDF) resource.

Interchangeability of AstraZeneca and mRNA Vaccines

Individuals have the option of receiving a second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine or choosing to have a second dose of one of the mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna). Individuals can review the Ministry of Health's COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Individuals who receive a first dose of AstraZeneca to help them decide what choice is right for them. They can also have a discussion with a health care provider.

Current evidence recommends waiting 12 weeks to receive a second dose as this interval allows for a better/optimal immune response to be achieved. However, the province recognizes that some may want to receive their second dose sooner to have the increased protection provided by an earlier second dose.