A look at the role of vaccines in Alberta's relaunch

No one is excited about entering another lockdown but this time around the path forward is going to look a little different because Alberta’s immunization will be playing a role in lifting the current restrictions in the province. 

“Right now, we are in a transition period fighting to keep control of the virus just a little while longer until it is vanquished by vaccines. As more people become immune, we will be able to get back to normal,” said Premier Jason Kenney during the April 6, 2021 COVID-19 update. 

During yesterday’s update, the Premier gave the province a look at the Path to Recovery which takes immunization into account for the province’s relaunch. 

Stage 1 

Kenney noted that 48 per cent of population is expected to have received their first dose of immunization by the end of May. When Stage 1 begins the province will once again see high-capacity limits and larger gatherings but isolation, masking, and social distancing rules will remain. 

Stage 2

By the end of June, the province’s projections show that around 64 per cent of Albertans will have immunity. In Stage 2, fairs and festivals can proceed, masking and distancing will continue to be encouraged and isolation rules will remain. 

Stage 3

By September, the province’s projections show that 72 per cent of Albertans will have immunity. By this time, the Premier expects a full return to regular life with no masking and no isolation. 

Vaccination roll out

Currently, Phase 2B of vaccinations is underway and starting today, anyone born in 2005 or earlier with eligible underlying health conditions can book appointments for the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Within the month, Phase 2C is believed to launch which includes the following people:

• Residents and support staff at eligible congregate living and work settings including the following:
  • Correctional facilities 
  • Front-line policing
  • Provincial sherrifs 
  • Homeless shelters 
  • Meatpacking plants
  • Group homes for disability 
  • Mental health and other licensed supportive living 
  • Health-care workers including the following:
  • Physicians 
  • Nurses 
  • Pharmacists 
  • Dentists 
  • All other regulated health care professionals 

• Anyone working in patient care facilities including the following: 
  • Alberta Health Services 
  • Covenant Health 
  • Alberta Precision Labs
  • DynaLife 
  • Students in practicum placements in clinical areas
  • Healthcare workers on First Nation reserves 

• Caregivers including Albertans who are most at risk of severe outcomes including the following:
  • Designated family/support people of individuals in long term care
  • Up to two caregivers for children under 16 who have an eligible chronic condition but are unable to receive a vaccine due to age

Phase 2D is believed to roll out in May and will consist of Albertans born in 1957 to 1971. Following that, Phase 3 will include vaccination of the general public which is believed to begin in May or June.  

For more information on vaccines and how to book them, click here.