Canada faces a temporary shortage of Pfizer’s pre-filled COVID vaccine syringes as pharmacies manage high demand during respiratory illness season.
Pfizer COVID Vaccine Limits Affect Pharmacies Across Canada
Rising Demand Creates Immediate Strain
Canadians seeking COVID-19 vaccinations at local pharmacies are encountering shortages as high demand outpaces supply. The surge comes during the peak of the respiratory illness season, prompting increased community interest in booster doses and updated formulations.
Manufacturer Temporarily Caps Pharmacy Orders
Pfizer Canada confirmed it has placed short-term limits on orders of its 0.3-millilitre pre-filled syringe product used outside hospital settings. According to Sophie Morin, senior manager of external communications, the measure is intended to stabilize distribution while demand remains unusually elevated.
Alternative Formats Remain Accessible
Despite limits on pre-filled syringes, Pfizer says multi-dose vials—commonly used in past vaccination campaigns—continue to be available for pharmacies. These vials offer cost-efficient packaging and storage, though single-dose syringes typically provide rural and small clinics more flexibility in handling and distribution.
Hospital Supplies Unaffected by Constraints
Pfizer emphasized that its 10-pack pre-filled syringes remain available for distributors serving public health programs. Hospital and long-term care facilities continue receiving vaccinations through provincial supply channels, with no reported interruptions.
Provinces Adjust Allocation to Meet Needs
Ontario’s Ministry of Health said the province still has vaccine supply ready for order and distribution. Officials reiterated that public vaccination programs are fully stocked to protect families during respiratory season. However, some regions—such as Calgary—have reported waitlists as pharmacies struggle to secure shipments.
Other Manufacturers Maintain Deliveries
Moderna Canada confirmed it is delivering doses to provinces and territories as scheduled. Provincial and territorial health authorities continue managing the allocation and public rollout of all available COVID-19 vaccines to balance supply across communities.
