Health Minister, Tyler Shandro announced that the COVID-19 vaccination will begin to be distributed on Wednesday, December 15th, 2020. 

“The first 3,900 doses will go to ICU doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and long-term care workers throughout the province. These staff are exhausted and have put themselves at risk for 10 months. They need support and they need to know we’re there for them,” said Shandro. 

The vaccine will require two doses approximately one month apart for it to be considered effective. The next shipment of vaccines is expected to arrive later in December. 

Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw is encouraging Albertans to continue receiving medical care if they require it. She believes some Albertans may fear the virus in hospitals; however, leaving concerning ailments unchecked can be just as dangerous as COVID-19. 

The doctor clarified the new restrictions involving outdoor gatherings. Outdoor gatherings are strictly prohibited but outdoor sport is not. She encourages Albertans not to find loopholes involving this restriction and recommends conducting sporting activities with their household members. 

December 9th new case numbers:

  • 1,460 new cases of the virus in the last 24 hours
  • 20,199 active cases in Alberta
  • 685 people are hospitalized with COVID-19
  • 121 people have been admitted to ICU’s with COVID-19
  • 52,636 total recovered cases
  • 13 new deaths in the last 24 hours
  • 653 total deaths from the virus

Active case numbers in Central Alberta area:

  • 66 active cases in Lacombe County
  • 46 active case in the City of Lacombe
  • 385 active cases in the City of Red Deer
  • 98 active cases in Red Deer County
  • 181 active cases in Ponoka County
  • 66 active cases in the Town of Sylvan Lake
  • 20 active cases in Stettler County
  • 27 active case in Mountain View County

*Not all cases in the Central Zone have been included.