Health Canada approves Novavax vaccine against COVID-19

Health Canada on Thursday approved the COVID-19 vaccine from Novavax. The U.S.-based biotechnology firm’s protein-based vaccine against COVID-19 is the first of its kind in Canada. The regulator has approved its use in people over the age of 18. The vaccine requires two doses given three weeks apart. The vaccine, called Nuvaxovid, is 90 per cent effective at preventing symptomatic infection and 100 per cent effective at preventing severe disease based on clinical trials, Health Canada said in a statement Thursday. The regulator also said that “preliminary and exploratory data shows” that the vaccine “does produce neutralizing antibodies against the Omicron variant,” but that additional data is needed to confirm that. “As a term and condition associated with the authorization, Novavax is required to provide data regarding protection against current and emerging variants of concern as soon as it is available,” Health Canada said. Experts have said those hesitant to take an mRNA vaccine such as Pfizer and Moderna may be more willing to take a vaccine such as Novavax’s. It is also easier to distribute than other vaccines requiring cold storage.Government officials were expected to address the Novavax approval later on Thursday. With files from The Canadian PressJacques Gallant is a Toronto-based reporter covering politics for the Star. Follow him on Twitter: @JacquesGallant