"Are you getting the third dose?" I have been asked this question countless times within the past few weeks. Many countries are moving toward recommending a third dose, or booster shot, for individuals who have been fully vaccinated. In the United States, the US Food and Drug Administration has recommended emergency authorization for a booster dose of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines for anyone aged 18 years or older.
Similarly, Canada's National Advisory Committee has recommended the mRNA vaccines for a third (or booster) dose. The European Union has followed similar recommendation guidelines for their member countries. However, many in the general population have expressed hesitancy regarding the adverse events and additional benefits of a booster dose. Growing confusion and distrust in authority figures is likely an important contributing factor for this vaccine hesitancy.
In recent months, we have seen a steady increase in vaccination numbers across the globe. In the United States, nearly 60% of all people ages 12 years and older have received two doses of the FDA-approved vaccines. In Canada, approximately 80% of the population aged 12 years and older has received at least one dose and approximately 75% has received both doses.
Growing Distrust
Of note, the two countries took a different approach with their vaccination strategy.
