Home / Health / Experts urge clarity on Alberta's fall COVID shot rollout
Experts urge clarity on Alberta's fall COVID shot rollout
16 Jun
Summary
- Infectious disease experts want Alberta to fully adopt federal vaccine guidance.
- Last year, Alberta charged $100 for COVID-19 vaccines, drawing criticism.
- Experts advocate for free, accessible vaccines, including at pharmacies.
Infectious disease specialists are calling on the Alberta government to fully embrace federal recommendations for its upcoming fall COVID-19 immunization strategy. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) continues to strongly endorse vaccines for high-risk individuals and suggests broader availability for others six months and older.
Alberta faced considerable backlash in the previous year for charging $100 for COVID-19 vaccines, a move that confused eligibility and deterred some residents. Experts like Dr. Lynora Saxinger highlight that a year without vaccination leaves many at elevated risk, potentially leading to a COVID-dominant year following a recent influenza-dominant season.
To improve vaccination rates, experts stress the importance of free and accessible doses. Dr. Craig Jenne notes that cost and complexity reduce vaccine uptake. He advocates for vaccines to be available in pharmacies and for free distribution to all Albertans aged 65 and older, contrasting with previous policies that excluded some seniors.
The Alberta government has stated it will provide an update on fall immunizations in the coming months, indicating that its approach is similar to last season. However, multiple experts contest this, emphasizing the need for clear provincial messaging that aligns with NACI's guidance for personal health choices.
