Alberta Health Information about COVID-19 Vaccine

The following information is taken from the Alberta Health Services website. A condensed version – with information particularly relevant to seniors - is presented below, courtesy of the Multicultural Health Brokers. 

Question: How much does the vaccine cost?

Answer: The vaccine is free.

Question: How will the vaccine be rolled out? 

Answer:  In stages. Here is the vaccine rollout plan for seniors: 

• Phase 1A: any seniors in long term care (LTC) and designated supportive living (DSL) facilities will be getting or have already received their first dose of vaccine.
• Phase 1B February -(timeline subject to change depending on vaccine supply): Seniors 75 years of age and over, no matter where they live.

Because of vaccine supply, seniors in Phase 1B cannot book an appointment yet. But when the time comes, it appears that they are using an online booking program. 

Question: Who should not have the COVID-19 vaccine?

Answer: You may not be able to have the vaccine if you:

• have an allergy to parts of the vaccine
• had a severe or unusual side effect after this vaccine or one like it
• have had another vaccine in the last two weeks

Check with your doctor or a public health nurse before you get the vaccine.

Talk to your doctor to find out if the vaccine is right for you. It might not be if you:

• have a weak immune system (because of a medicine you take or a health problem)
• have an autoimmune disorder (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus)

For more information on the COVID vaccine roll-out, please click here