Risks of COVID-19 variants

About the variants

• Viruses mutate and change, causing new variants to emerge
• COVID-19 spreads very quickly, especially some of its variants
• Some variants are more mild than others, but hospitalizations and deaths can still occur. The severity of illness depends on:
  • your COVID-19 vaccination status
  • if you’ve had a prior infection
  • age
  • any underlying medical conditions

COVID-19 does not have to be severe to take a toll. Even mild symptoms have an impact on communities, businesses and health systems.

Remember: a virus’s job is to spread, not to treat people kindly.

To find out more, visit:

• COVID-19 variants of concern

About the vaccines

Vaccines are very effective in protecting you from severe COVID-19, hospitalization and death.

You are less likely to develop severe COVID-19 if you have up-to-date vaccinations, including a booster shot if you are eligible.

How you can do your part

• Get vaccinated
• Stay at home when sick
• Wear a mask
• Practice physical distancing
• Wash or sanitize your hands

To find out more about your COVID-19 guidance in your province or territory, including how to book your vaccine, visit:

• COVID-19: Provincial and territorial resources