Seronegative children were 9 to 12 times more likely to develop antibodies due to infection in the early Omicron period, compared to before Omicron
A CITF-funded study, published in Influenza Other and Respiratory Viruses, found previously seronegative children were 9 to 12 times more likely to seroconvert due to infection during the early Omicron-dominant period (May to October 2022) than in pre-Omicron periods.
British Columbia experienced an increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during the COVID-19 pandemic
A CITF-funded study, published in The Lancet Regional Health - Americas, reported an increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections among older children (>2 years old) during 2021–22, the first RSV season after a prolonged lack of virus circulation, compared to pre-pandemic years (2017-2020).
Seroprevalence due to infection stable at 80% in July
The latest CITF-funded report from Canadian Blood Services suggests that seroprevalence due to infection was stable at 80% among Canadian blood donors by the end of July.
CITF-funded findings on vaccine responses in people with compromised immune systems
Studies showed that in most immune-compromised individuals, booster doses were necessary and safe to boost much needed antibody and cell-mediated immunity levels, as their waning seems to occur faster.
CITF-funded findings on the importance of community engagement in research
Social and economic inequities, and related unequal access to health resources, increase risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 outcomes. Developing relationships that connect researchers with community and local health leaders fosters trust.
Extracellular vesicles promote the recovery of heart function
A CITF-funded study, published in preprint and not yet peer-reviewed, provided valuable insights into the mechanisms of myocardial inflammation and its effects on heart function using a heart-on-a-chip model.
Two doses of Moderna vaccine effective against SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization in children aged 6 months to 5 years
A CITF-funded study, published in preprint and not yet peer-reviewed, found that a 2nd dose of the Moderna vaccine was associated with reduced symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection (vaccine effectiveness [VE]=90%), as well as reduced COVID-19-related hospitalization (VE=82%) in children aged 6 months to 5 years.
Gay, bisexual, queer, and other men who have sex with men (GBQM) of colour faced discrimination during COVID-19
A CITF-funded led study, published in the International Journal of Equity Health, found that many gay, bisexual, queer, and other men who have sex with men (GBQM) of colour faced discrimination during COVID-19.
Educating adults about COVID-19 vaccines is essential to promote vaccine confidence
A CITF-funded review, published in Campbell Systematic Reviews, found that among various strategies for promoting vaccine confidence, educational interventions were introduced to support individuals in their vaccine decisions by building COVID-19 vaccine knowledge and confidence. Group-based and formal presentations were the most frequently used.