CNA believes that vaccinations are effective and safe and are the best way to protect against infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, evidence has shown that COVID-19 vaccines protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. Further, receiving a booster dose can provide greater and long-lasted protection against these outcomes – even if an individual has been previously infected with COVID-19.
Vaccinations, however, do not prevent against becoming infected by COVID-19. Therefore, all individuals should continue to follow public health measures according to local authorities, including staying home, self-isolating, and getting tested if symptoms develop.
Misinformation has contributed to vaccine hesitancy across Canada. Vaccine hesitancy is described as a delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite availability of vaccine services. Nurses play a significant role in COVID-19 immunization programs, as well as in educating patients, families and communities with evidence-informed information. Therefore, it is imperative that nurses have access to up-to-date information about approved vaccines, recommendations for use, prioritization of populations and safety considerations as well as adverse event reporting. Below are lists of evidence-based resources to support nurses.
Information about COVID-19 vaccines:
Vaccine safety information:
Resources for health-care providers:
Resources to address vaccine hesitancy:
Webinars: