First vaccine doses hit 80 per cent

In addition, 72 per cent of eligible Albertans are now fully immunized with both doses, helping protect their health and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Increasing hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions among unvaccinated Albertans are challenging the health system that all Albertans rely on.

Starting Sept. 20, vaccine-eligible individuals will be required to provide government-issued proof of immunization or a negative privately paid COVID-19 test from within the previous 72 hours to access a variety of participating social, recreational and discretionary events and businesses throughout the province.

All eligible Albertans are strongly encouraged to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to help prevent transmission and protect the health system. 

“Thank you to not only every Albertan who has stepped up and got vaccinated but who have booked doses. We’ve seen a rush in bookings in recent days, and every dose will help bend down the curve and protect our health-care system. While many have stepped up to get their COVID-19 vaccine, we need as many people as possible to get their first and second doses immediately to reduce stress on our health-care system.”Jason Kenney, Premier

“Vaccines help prevent serious illness and deaths from COVID and are our best protection against this virus. Today’s milestones are a step in the right direction, but Albertans need to follow up with their second doses as soon as they can to protect themselves and their neighbours. Greater vaccine coverage means a reduced spread and less stress on our hospitals.”Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health

“Millions of vaccines have been administered here and around the world. The evidence is clear: Vaccines are very safe and they work. If you haven’t got your shot yet, it is critical that you do so now to help protect yourself and our health-care system.”Dr. Deena Hinshaw, chief medical officer of health

First doses offer a high level of protection against COVID-19, and when followed by a second dose, help to provide the best and longest-lasting protection against the virus and its variants.

Albertans can book appointments online for AHS or participating pharmacies by using the one-stop booking system at alberta.ca/vaccine. Albertans can also book an appointment by calling 811 or participating pharmacies. Walk-in appointments for first doses are also available. For schedule and locations, visit ahs.ca/vaccine.

All Albertans age 18 and over are eligible to enter Alberta’s vaccine lottery once they’ve received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine. Registration for the final $1-million draw closes on Sept. 23.

Alberta has also launched an incentive program to deliver a $100 debit card to Albertans 18 years of age and older who receive a first or second dose of COVID-19 vaccine between Sept. 3 and Oct. 14 to encourage more Albertans to get protected as soon as possible. A complete list of rules is available online at alberta.ca/VaccineDebitCard.

More information on the Restrictions Exemption Program is also available at alberta.ca/COVID19.

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