Banff 
Albertans 18 and above can book appointments for the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine starting Sept. 21st, the provincial government announced today.
The bivalent COVID-19 vaccine by Moderna which is effective against variants like Omicron variant BA.1 and the original SARS-CoV-2 virus strain was approved by Health Canada on Sept. 1st. It was also found to generate a good immune response against the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants, and is expected to extend the durability of protection.
Vaccine appointments will also start on September 21st. Vaccines will be available at participating pharmacies and community medical clinics and select AHS sites.
Starting the week of Oct. 3, the bivalent booster will be offered to residents of seniors congregate care facilities, along with the influenza vaccine.
According to the news release, Albertans who have completed a primary series are eligible for the bivalent vaccine.
The province recommends an interval minimum of five months from the last dose or previous infection.
Alberta expects to give bivalent COVID-19 vaccine to Albertans 12-17 years of age by late September/early October.
Who is eligible for bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine:
Alberta residents 18 years and older eligible for the bivalent vaccine will include:
- People who have completed any primary series, including a mix of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, and have at least five months spacing since the last dose or most recent infection.
- Individuals who have received any number of previous boosters and have at least five months spacing since the last dose or most recent infection.
How to book immunization appointment:
Bookings will be available through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System:
- online at alberta.ca/vaccine
- by calling Health Link at 811. Appointments for a shortened interval of at least three months cannot be booked online.
- Participating in pharmacies.
- Individuals who live on a First Nations reserve can access doses through nursing stations or public health clinics on-reserve.
