The province is expanding eligibility for administering the fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccine and Paxlovid treatment to residents.
AHS says that COVID-19 hospital numbers are remaining stable however, the Omicron subvariant BA.2 is now making up 80 per cent of new cases in Alberta. With the BA.2 dominance, there is the potential for increased transmission and increased hospital admissions.
The province is increasing eligibility for fourth doses of COVID-19 vaccine and Paxlovid treatment to Albertans susceptible to severe outcomes.
Minister of Health, Jason Copping says, “We’re well-positioned to manage some increase in admissions if we see that, and Albertans have access to vaccines and antiviral treatments for protection against severe outcomes. I encourage everyone to get vaccinated with every dose you’re eligible for and to stay home if you’re feeling unwell.”
As of Tuesday, April 12, Albertans 70 years of age and older, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people in Alberta age 65 and older, and all seniors in congregate care regardless of age can receive a fourth dose of vaccine. This decision is based on a recent recommendation from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACA).
Eligible individuals can book their fourth dose if it has been 5 months since their third dose. Appointments can be booked through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System, by calling 811, or at participating pharmacies.
Also starting April 12, Alberta will receive 10,000 doses of Novavax’s Nuvaxovid, a two-dose non-mRNA vaccine approved for 18 and older.
Finally, on April 12, children aged six to 11 will also have an additional option of receiving the Moderna mRNA vaccine.
Eligibility for the Paxlovid treatment has expanded to include: First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people aged 45 and older who are unvaccinated or have received only one dose of vaccine and individuals living in long-term care and designated supportive living settings, regardless of vaccination status.