Alberta to lift remaining COVID-19 public health restrictions

Alberta is lifting its remaining COVID-19 public health restrictions.

The province says it will move into Step 3 of its pandemic plan at 11:59 p.m. local time Tuesday. This will see the end of measures, like mandatory masking on public transit and mandatory isolation.

“Isolation will remain recommended for those with symptoms or a positive COVID-19 test,” the Alberta government said Monday in a release.

“We need to live with COVID-19 while accepting that it will continue to be present. We’ll continue to work to keep Albertans safe by ensuring access to vaccines, antivirals, and rapid tests, through ongoing COVID-19 surveillance, and by enhancing health-care system capacity,” Health Minister Jason Copping said.

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While masking and isolation rules are being lifted, the province notes measures in Alberta Health Services (AHS) and contracted health facilities will remain in place through the AHS’ policies, as required.

Orders in continuing care, meanwhile, “will be rescinded by June 30,” the province adds, noting some measures, like isolation of symptomatic residents, outbreak protocols, and masking, will stay in place in these settings.

The move to lift public health measures comes amid what the Alberta government calls a decline in new hospitalizations. It notes the number of new admissions has fallen since the Omicron wave’s peak on April 26.

While isolation will no longer be mandatory as of Wednesday, the province is still recommending people isolate if they are symptomatic or have a positive COVID-19 test.

“Work is underway to prepare for the fall and winter respiratory virus season. This includes maintaining surveillance and testing programs and preparing to expand acute care surge capacity,” the Alberta government says.

While PCR testing has dropped significantly over the past several months, the province says it is continuing to provide Albertans with rapid tests free of charge.

Albertans are also encouraged to get vaccinated if they have not already done so and are eligible. Shots are available on a walk-in basis, the province says.

“As we bring COVID-19 management in line with other respiratory diseases, it will continue to be vital that we receive our primary vaccine series and any additional booster doses we are eligible for, and continue good habits like washing our hands regularly and avoiding being around others if we feel sick,” said Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw.