COVID-19 Vaccine Supply Interruption - Moderna for ages 6 months to 5 years
This advisory provides information regarding the supply of Infant Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (6months to 5 years). Beginning on March 9, 2023, there is an anticipated temporary interruption in the supply of this product. This interruption is expected to last 6 weeks.
Infant Pfizer-BioNTech will continue to be available during this time frame for age group, however it requires a 3 dose primary series so relies on an additional commitment from parents, caregivers and practitioners to receive a completed series.
In planning for this interruption in supply, the following options can be considered for those that wish to receive COVID-19 vaccination for their children:
For those that are initiating a primary series (1st dose):
- Receive initial dose of Moderna for ages 6 months to 5 years before March 9, 2023 or consider delaying initiation of the series: Based on personal assessment of risk of exposure to COVID-19, parents/caregivers can consider accessing first dose before Mar 9, 2023 or waiting until supply is restored to initiate vaccination for their child. A completed primary series with Moderna for this age range is a 2-dose series over a recommended interval of 56 days.
- Initiate a primary series with Pfizer for ages 6 months to 5 years. Please be aware that for this product, a completed primary series requires 3 doses over a total recommended interval of 112 days to complete the series.
For those that have received their first dose of Infant Moderna Vaccine:
- Delay receipt of the second dose of vaccine until supply is restored: This is a feasible and safe option. A delayed dose remains valid and does not require an additional dose.
- Eligible individuals can consider receiving a dose prior to March 9, 2023 on an accelerated schedule. As long as the minimal interval of 28 days has been met, an accelerated schedule may be preferred in certain circumstances such as for individuals that are immunocompromised or require immunization prior to travel.
- Consider receiving a Pfizer-BioNTech dose during the interruption in supply. It is preferred that individuals complete a primary series with the same product. A follow-up dose of Pfizer after an initial dose of Moderna is considered valid, however completion of a primary series would require a third dose of either Moderna or Pfizer.
Public Health Services Mobile clinics, select pharmacies and primary care locations continue to provide vaccination services for ages 6 months and older.
Please visit www.hamilton.ca/coronavirus for more information about COVID vaccine availability in Hamilton.
Medical Advisory: COVID-19 Vaccine Supply Interruption - Moderna for ages 6 months to 5 years