More Canadians may soon be eligible for another COVID-19 booster. Here’s what we know

More Canadians may soon be offered a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine - a move most experts agree could be vital to containing the potential damage of another case surge.

More Canadians may soon be offered a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine – a move most experts agree could be vital to containing the potential damage of another case surge.

Canada‘s advisory panel on vaccines is expected to update its guidance in coming days as concern mounts that the country could be on the brink of a sixth wave.

U.S. regulators approved additional boosters this week for Americans aged 50 and older if it’s been at least four months since their last dose, as well as certain younger people with severely weakened immune systems.

Here’s what scientists say about what could be ahead for Canada’s next stage in the COVID-19 fight.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization suggests anyone “moderately to severely immunocompromised” get a fourth dose six months after their third shot.

Many provinces have already prioritized this population and set their own guidelines on booster timing and eligibility.

As a number of provinces move to expand access to second boosters, a spokeswoman for the Public Health Agency of Canada said Thursday that it plans to publish NACI’s guidance in early April.

“NACI has been asked for advice on the potential use of second booster doses in elderly populations at higher risk of severe disease,” Anna Maddison said in an email.