While many provinces across Canada already allow adults to sign up for their second COVID-19 booster shot, Alberta has not yet expanded eligibility.
Currently, only Albertans who are 70 years of age and older, Indigenous residents who are 65 years of age and older, and seniors who live in a group care setting are eligible for a fourth dose of the vaccine.
Ontario is the latest province to increase eligibility for fourth doses, offering reservations to anyone over the age of 18 starting Thursday. In British Columbia, health officials recently recommended a slower approach, planning to roll out fourth doses to most of the population in the fall.
“We appreciate both approaches,” Jason Copping, Alberta’s health minister, told CTV News on Thursday.
“We are currently evaluating it and will be able to make an announcement next week.”
A spokesperson for Alberta Health reiterated that they are reviewing the guidelines for a second booster dose.
“As we continue to live with COVID, vaccines will continue to be critical to protecting our health, our loved ones and the health care system. That’s why we continue to encourage Albertans to get every dose of vaccine they’re eligible for,” Lisa Glover said in an email to CTV News.
Edmonton health worker Crystal Mundy is among those hoping to receive a fourth dose of the vaccine soon.
“It’s worrying for a lot of people because we don’t know when we’re going to be able to get it,” Mundy said.
“When it comes to health workers or younger people who are compromised, there is no plan. It would be nice to see them start to mirror what some of the other provinces are doing as well.”
As of this week, just over 210,000 fourth doses have been administered in Alberta.
Click here to learn more about fourth dose eligibility in Canada.
Add Comment