Alberta to roll out bivalent COVID-19 vaccine
Posted Sep 14, 2022 5:19 pm.
Last Updated Sep 15, 2022 6:30 am.
The Alberta government says the newly approved bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will be available to people in the province starting next week.
Rollout of Moderna’s Omicron-targeted shot is set to begin on Sept. 21.
Albertans who have received a primary series of vaccine, as well as those who have received the booster will be eligible for the shot, so long as it has been at least five months since their last dose.
The government adds that the vaccines will be available at pharmacies, community medical clinics, and select AHS sites.
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The Alberta government says the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will be available to people between the ages of 12 and 17 in late September or early October.
Additionally, starting the week of Oct. 3, the bivalent booster will be offered to residents of seniors congregate care facilities, along with the influenza vaccine.
People living on First Nations reserves can access doses through nursing stations or public health clinics on the reserve.
The province says that some people may be considered to receive the booster early if they are at higher risk of severe outcomes. However, it notes a longer interval between doses leads to a better immune response against COVID-19 infection that is expected to last longer.
The Alberta government says appointments for a shortened interval of at least three months cannot be booked online.
Officials have said that the vaccine triggers a stronger immune response and will provide additional protection against both Omicron and the original SARS-COV-2 virus strain.
Bookings will be available through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System website or by calling Health Link at 811.
