The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is diligently crafting plans for the fall/winter 2025-26 COVID-19 immunization program. This development comes as the federal government announced in early January that it would discontinue funding for COVID-19 vaccines, leaving provinces and territories responsible for their purchase, timing, and rollout. With COVID-19 activity historically peaking from late summer to early January, coinciding with the respiratory season, Saskatchewan is gearing up to respond effectively.
The current COVID-19 immunization program persists, ensuring protection for vulnerable groups such as those living in long-term or personal care facilities and individuals six months of age and older with certain medical conditions. These individuals remain a priority under the existing program, as the province plans its strategy for the upcoming seasons.
“Plans are currently in development for the fall/winter 2025-26 COVID-19 immunization program,” – Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Health
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health confirmed its dedication to maintaining the existing program in a written statement released on Tuesday. The ministry is focused on scientific evidence and clinical expert recommendations as it devises its strategy, taking into account advice from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).
“an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose be offered this spring to individuals who are most at risk of severe COVID-19 illness and outcomes,” – NACI
NACI has advised that annually, individuals aged 65 and older, healthcare workers, and those at higher risk of severe COVID-19 should receive vaccinations if previously vaccinated. This recommendation aligns with NACI's broader guidance on annual vaccinations for high-risk groups.
“Unlike influenza, SARS-CoV-2 has been circulating year-round, without a clear pattern in disease activity,” – NACI
Given the unpredictable nature of SARS-CoV-2 compared to influenza, Saskatchewan's health authorities are carefully considering how best to approach the flu season response. The provincial government is actively evaluating its strategies to ensure they are aligned with both current health needs and expert recommendations.
