World News

Ottawa Acquires Half a Million Doses of Bird Flu Vaccine


The federal government has announced the purchase of 500,000 doses of bird flu vaccine to ensure Canada is prepared for potential health threats.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has confirmed the acquisition of GSK’s human vaccine for avian influenza.

PHAC has allocated 60 percent of the acquired doses to provinces and territories, while the remaining 40 percent will be held in a federal stockpile.

It is advised not to widely distribute the vaccine, as it is intended for individuals at higher risk, such as those in regular contact with infected animals and their surroundings.

The general risk to the public is considered low, according to PHAC.

On November 9, 2024, Canada reported its first confirmed case of domestically acquired human avian influenza, also known as H5N1.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Health Minister Mark Holland emphasized that this procurement is part of proactive measures to address the potential spread of H5N1.



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