Albertans will be able to get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine starting September 21st.
Health Canada recently approved the Moderna Spikevax Bivalent COVID-19 vaccine for those interested who are 18-years-old and over. It is the first COVID-19 vaccine available in Canada that targets Omicron in addition to the original strain of the coronavirus.
“The bivalent COVID-19 vaccine triggers a stronger immune response and provides additional protection against both Omicron and the original SARS-CoV-2 virus strain,” the provincial government explains.
In order to be eligible, Albertans need to have had their first two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. They can also have had other booster shots. It’s recommended to wait at least five months from the last dose or previous infection.
Vaccines will be available at participating pharmacies and community medical clinics as well as select AHS sites. Bookings will be available through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System at alberta.ca/vaccine or by calling Health Link at 811.
It’s expected the bivalent vaccine will be available for Albertans aged 12 to 17 in late September or early October. The bivalent booster will be offered to residents of seniors congregate care facilities along with the influenza vaccine starting the week of October 3rd.