On September 19, 2024, Health Canada approved Novavax’s updated JN.1 vaccine – the only protein-based COVID vaccine option for people in Canada. However, the federal government opted not to order any Novavax, leaving that responsibility to the provinces. 

British Columbia has yet to make a decision, which leaves many vulnerable people uncertain of where they stand. For some British Columbians, Novavax is the only vaccine option they can tolerate – meaning without it, they cannot get vaccinated at all. 

There is clear demand for Novavax. The Canadian Immunocompromised Advocacy Network released an open letter calling for Novavax access, signed by doctors and stakeholder organizations across Canada. Meanwhile, people across the country have sent nearly 10,000 letters and rising. Some Canadians have been forced to travel to the US to pay out of pocket for vaccination — something beyond the reach of many sick and lower-income people. 

Please join us in urging BC policy-makers to ensure Novavax access without delay. This is a matter of safety and health equity for some of the most vulnerable amongst us, including some people who already have Long COVID or other serious complex conditions. We must also ensure Novavax is offered in a TIMELY fashion, with clear messaging, to avoid a repeat of last season (when a very delayed rollout and severely restricted availability contributed to perceived “low demand”).