The Path to Defeating COVID‑19
We encourage everyone to consider getting a vaccine once one is available for you.
COVID-19 Vaccine Progress to Date in Canada
Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are authorized for use in Canada. Both vaccines require two doses: 21 days apart for the Pfizer vaccine and 28 days apart for the Moderna vaccine. Vaccination has started and will be expanded to the entire population throughout 2021 as vaccine supply increases. View the number of doses distributed and administered.
Initial Vaccine Recipient Prioritization
Doses for the whole population will arrive at different times. A phased approach to vaccine delivery will begin with the arrival of limited doses, which will be prioritized for high-risk people.
Phase 1& 1A: December 2020 –January 2021
Immunizations were offered to key populations, with a focus on acute care sites with the highest COVID-19 capacity concerns in Edmonton and Calgary:
- Health-care workers in intensive care units, emergency departments, COVID 19 Units, medical and surgical units, and operating rooms
- Respiratory therapists
- Staff in long term care and designated supportive living facilities
- All residents of long term care and designated supportive living, regardless of age
- Paramedics and emergency medical technicians
Phase 1B: February 2021
Immunizations will soon be offered to key populations:
- Seniors 75 years of age and over, no matter where they live
- First Nations, Métis and persons 65 years of age and over living in a First Nations community or Metis Settlement
Phase 2: April to Sept 2021 – continue targeting populations at risk
- Work to identify sequencing for Phase 2 groups is underway. Decisions will be made in the coming weeks.
Phase 3: Fall 2021
- Anticipated start of roll-out to the general public
Vaccine Safety
Canada has an established vaccine safety system that ensures all vaccines are as safe as possible. The safety of a COVID-19 vaccine is a top priority. Learn more about how federal partners are ensuring that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe.
What You Can Do Now
Follow the Public Health Measures Stay home - save lives and don't put others at risk Practice physical distancing - stay 2 metres from anyone who is not in your household Wear a mask or face covering in public spaces when physical distancing isn't possible |
Take a self-assessment to help you decide if you need a COVID-19 test Travel restrictions to prevent COVID-19 Stay up to date with the latest information about COVID-19 in Alberta |
Do You Plan to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
The Alberta Lung Association encourages everyone to talk with their doctor about planning for the COVID-19 Vaccine. To stop the spread of infection and end the pandemic, Canada needs widespread adoption of the COVID-19 Vaccine. Will you get vaccinated?