By Joseph Cairoli
As the Omicron variant of Covid-19 starts to spread there are growing concerns over Ontario’s policies and whether the vaccines help combat the new variant. The various vaccine manufacturers have spoken on the matter.
Stephen Bancel, the CEO of Moderna told the Financial Times the Moderna vaccine will likely need modifications in order to be effective against the new variants, “I just don’t know how much because we need to wait for the data but all the scientists I’ve talked to… are like ‘this is not going to be good.” Bancel says the variant is likely already present in most companies and told CNBC this new Omicron variant version of the vaccine likely won’t be ready for months.
Johnson and Johnson released a statement on their website saying they are closely monitoring the new variant, and will develop a booster shot if need be.
Astrazeneca has stated that they are monitoring the situation but don’t have evidence to show their vaccine will be ineffective at preventing serious disease from the new variant.
Pfizer has claimed their vaccine will offer protection against the new variant. They will conduct tests in the coming days to see if an upgrade has to be made to their vaccine, but they don’t anticipate it.
Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario’s chief medical officer, doesn’t anticipate the province having to take a step back in their reopening plan. Moore told a news conference, Monday, to “stay calm” until more is known about the new variant. Canada has blocked travel from a number of African countries in attempts to contain the new variant until more information is available. Moore also emphasized that all Canadians are highly encouraged to get vaccinated or get booster shots if needed.
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