Canada Could Suspend The AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine For People Under 55

Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunization is expected to make an announcement today regarding the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in Canada.

A report from CBC News says the committee is set to advise Canada’s provinces to pause distribution of the AstraZeneca vaccine among those under the age of 55.

Editor's Choice: One Canadian Province Has Just Suspended The AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine

While details are yet to be confirmed, CBC News reports the suggested suspension is related to “safety concerns.”

This comes just days after Health Canada updated the vaccine’s label to include information about blood clots and reports of similar post-vaccine reactions were reported in Europe.

Both Health Canada and Justin Trudeau have repeatedly reassured Canadians that the AstraZeneca vaccine is safe and effective, with the country set to receive 1.5 million doses from the U.S. on Wednesday.

How are the provinces responding?

On the same day, P.E.I. said the province would be suspending use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, with appointments for those between the ages of 18 and 29 to receive AstraZeneca doses put on hold.

Quebec officials are expected to make a similar announcement, with CBC News reporting the province will also temporarily stop administering the vaccine to those under the age of 55.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has spoken out too, confirming that he "won't hesitate to cancel [the vaccine] in half a heartbeat if it's going to put anyone in harm."

Health Canada has a robust website with all the latest information on the vaccines and can answer any questions you may have. Click here for more information.