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Alberta Hospitals Urged to Boost Childhood Vaccination Rates
17 Nov
Summary
- Alberta lost measles-free status, prompting calls for action
- Pediatricians want routine vaccines available in hospitals 24/7
- Government rejects idea, citing pressure on children's hospitals
As of November 17, 2025, Alberta pediatricians are advocating for a significant change to how childhood vaccinations are delivered in the province. They argue that making routine immunizations readily available in pediatric hospitals could help address the province's slumping vaccination rates, which have led to the recent loss of Alberta's measles-free status.
Dr. Sam Wong, president of the section of pediatrics with the Alberta Medical Association, has been pushing for this change for several years. He believes that by offering vaccines in hospitals, where many unvaccinated children already receive care, the province could improve access and boost overall immunization coverage. However, the Alberta government has firmly rejected this proposal, stating that children's hospitals are already under significant pressure and that introducing more patients solely for vaccination services could put vulnerable children at risk.
The province's vaccination data paints a concerning picture. As of 2024, only 68% of Alberta's two-year-olds had received the recommended two doses of the measles vaccine, well below the 95% target. Rates for other routine childhood immunizations, such as those protecting against whooping cough and polio, are also dropping. Pediatricians warn that without urgent action, the province could see more outbreaks, hospitalizations, and potentially even deaths from preventable diseases.
