Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) COVID-19 vaccine should be offered as the preferred choice for this age group.
The following is a message from Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Alberta:
As of November 23, 2021, Alberta is recommending that Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) COVID-19 vaccine be offered as the preferred choice of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine for Albertans 12 to 29 years of age to start and/or complete their primary series (including immunocompromised individuals who are eligible for a third dose as their primary series).
- The preferred recommendation is based on a higher rate of myocarditis and/or pericarditis following immunization with Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 vaccine relative to Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) COVID-19 vaccine in those aged 12 to 29 years, particularly among males. It should be noted that the risk is still considered rare.
- This recommendation is supported by the Alberta Advisory Committee on Immunization (AACI), based on their review of all currently available evidence including the most up-to-date Alberta data.
- People 12 to 29 years old can still take the Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 vaccine, if they so choose, with informed consent.
For more information, including a summary of current evidence, and clinical investigation and diagnosis, refer to the Alberta Health website.
