Although cases of COVID-19 are stabilizing across the country, an upsurge is “possible” during the summer with the arrival of new variants BA.4 and BA.5 of the Omicron family, warns Health federal public.
Posted at 11:54 a.m.
These variants have a “growth advantage” over others, said Deputy Public Health Officer of Canada, Dr Howard Njoo, in a press briefing on Friday, to provide an update on the situation of COVID-19 and monkeypox.
The federal agency observed that the BA.4 and BA.5 have gained ground in recent weeks.
“We also have indications that there may be an immune escape for BA.4 and BA.5. We see what is happening in other countries in Europe, for example in Portugal. It is possible that we could have an upsurge to come, ”he detailed, accompanied by the chief federal public health officer, DD Theresa Tam.
Furthermore, the Dr Njoo confirmed that Health Canada has received a request from Moderna for the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine to children under five. The United States on Friday authorized the vaccines of Pfizer and Moderna in toddlers from the age of six months.