The Alberta government is planning to vaccinate more than 1.79 million Albertans this spring under the next phase of their vaccine distribution strategy.
Beginning in April, Phase 2 vaccinations will be offered in a staged approach to anyone between the ages of 50 and 74, anyone with high-risk underlying health conditions, First Nations and Métis people 35 or older, residents and staff in congregate living setting and eligible caregivers.
“Our province is ready to get vaccines into the arms of Albertans as quickly as possible,” Premier Jason Kenney says. “However, this relies on Alberta getting the right supply of vaccines from Ottawa, on time. We need the federal government to end the delays so we can get the job done.”
The staged grouping is as follows:
Group A
- Albertans age 65 to 74, no matter where they live.
- First Nations and Métis people age 50 to 64, on and off reserve or Métis settlements.
- Staff of licensed supportive living facility not included in Phase 1.
Group B
- Albertans age 18 to 64 with a high-risk underlying health condition. Specific conditions will be provided before the Phase 2 rollout.
Group C
- Resident and staff of eligible congregate living settings including correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and groups home for those with disabilities or mental health.
- Health-care workers providing direct and acute patient care who have a high potential to spread to high-risk individuals.
- Caregivers of Albertans who are most at risk of severe outcomes.
Group D
- Albertans age 50 to 64, no matter where they live.
- First Nations and Métis people age 35 to 49, on and off reserve or Métis settlements.
The province says more information for those eligible for a shot will be released before each step in Phase 2. The timeline on the start of each phase is dependent on vaccine supply and all those who were vaccinated are expected to continue following health guidelines and restrictions. The province adds work is being done to identify the next groups in the vaccination plan.
In addition to the plan, the province is also offering COVID-19 vaccines to all residents who are 75 or older and in retirement centres, lodges, supportive living or other congregate living facilities. Alberta Health Services will be contacting facilities to arrange immunization services. Starting February 24th, Albertans born in 1946 will be eligible to book an appointment for a vaccine, regardless of where they live.