Provincial Press Release March 3, 2021 @ 4:36pm published at 4:43pm
Alberta is extending the period between first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccine.
Starting March 10, anyone who books a first dose of vaccine will have their second dose timeline extended up to four months, and the appointment will be booked at a later date.
Emerging evidence indicates that first doses of all currently approved vaccines appear to be at least 80 per cent effective in protecting against severe outcomes after the first dose.
The 16-week timeline for second doses brings Alberta in line with British Columbia and other jurisdictions.
Provided supply of vaccine arrives as forecasted by the federal government, we will continue to get doses to Albertans as quickly and safely as possible.
“We are acting on the best evidence available to protect every Albertan. This change will enable thousands of Albertans to get their vaccine sooner while still ensuring that everyone receives the protection of a second dose. The faster that we can offer the vaccine to Albertans, the more quickly we will be able to safely ease more restrictions across the province.” Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health
“The evidence for COVID-19 is constantly evolving. We’ve seen in research from other jurisdictions that one dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine offers a huge boost in immunity, to at least 80 per cent protection. We will continue to adjust our vaccination plan to best protect Albertans, reflecting the real-time research being done.” Dr. Deena Hinshaw, chief medical officer of health
All existing appointments for second doses will be honoured. Anyone who receives a first dose prior to March 10 will receive their second dose within 42 days.
Starting March 10, eligible Albertans will book a first dose appointment only. They will receive a reminder from AHS or the participating pharmacy to book a second dose appointment at a later date.
Albertans born in 1946 or earlier can book an appointment through a participating pharmacy in Calgary, Edmonton or Red Deer. They can also book appointments online through Alberta Health Services or by calling 811.
Alberta’s government is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by protecting lives and livelihoods with precise measures to bend the curve, sustain small businesses and protect Alberta’s health-care system.
Quick facts
To date, 255,283 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Alberta.
89,094 Albertans are fully vaccinated with two doses of COVID-19 vaccine.
More information on upcoming phases of Alberta’s vaccine rollout will be released in the coming weeks.