You’re getting the chance to help learn more about the COVID-19 vaccines.
The COVID-19 Immunity Task Force, Vaccine Surveillance Reference Group, and Dalhousie University are holding a nationwide study to look at the effects of ‘mixing-and-matching’ approved vaccines.
This includes the Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines.
“Our objective is to determine: what are the effects of different dosing intervals of the vaccines on immunity and safety,” said Dr. Joanne Langley, co-Principal Investigator of the study.
“We also want to know what the immune response is if two doses of different COVID-19 vaccine products are used, and how long these responses last.”
Canada isn’t the first to start its own study as other countries, including the United Kingdom, are also looking into the potential side effects of using two different vaccines.
This comes after the provincial government temporarily halted the first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine a decrease in global supply.
The little the province has left will go towards those who’ve already gotten the shot, however, there are concerns around whether they’ll be enough for everyone.
“There has never been a more critical time to collect real-time evidence to inform practice, policy, and decision making,” added Dr. Alice Aiken, Vice President Research and Innovation at Dalhousie University.
The study is looking for 1,300 individuals from around the country. To be eligible, you must have received your first dose within the last 28 days.
Those interested in participating can sign up through the Canadian Immunization Research Network’s website.
