The province is expanding its booster shot campaign.
Effective immediately, all Albertans aged 18 and older who received their second COVID-19 dose at least five months ago can now book a third dose.
According to the province, the severity of the Omicron variant is not yet known, but it is clear there is an increased risk of transmission. Officials hope expanding the eligibility will help to provide “increased protection and prevent community spread.”
“There is still a lot that we don’t know about Omicron. But one thing we do know is that the most powerful protection from this highly contagious variant is to get a booster shot,” stated premier Jason Kenney.
Albertans are encouraged to take the first mRNA vaccine available to them for a third dose. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines offer a high level of protection against COVID-19, particularly against severe outcomes.
The Pfizer vaccine will be offered to Albertans 18 to 29 for booster purposes as a cautionary measure.
While there is a slightly increased risk of myocarditis in younger Albertans from Moderna, especially in males, the province says individuals are much more likely to experience myocarditis from COVID-19 infection than the vaccine.
All Albertans aged 18 and older at five months or more from their second dose can book appointments for third doses online with participating pharmacies or AHS by using the Alberta vaccine booking system or by calling AHS at 811.