Albertans Begin Booking Appointments for COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Immunizations

Starting today, Albertans have the opportunity to book appointments for immunizations against COVID-19, influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), according to a statement released by provincial authorities on Monday. Appointments for COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available to the general public from October 15, while RSV immunization slots can be reserved starting October 21.

Eligible residents can schedule their vaccinations through Health Link at 811 for appointments at pharmacies or Alberta Health Services (AHS) clinics, or they can directly contact local pharmacies. “Adding an extra layer of protection this fall is the best way to guard against the illnesses that typically arise during the fall and winter months,” said Dr. Mark Joffe, Chief Medical Officer of Health, in the release. “The respiratory virus vaccines that will be offered this fall are specifically designed to offer strong defense against the strains of these viruses expected to circulate this season.”

This year, alongside flu and COVID-19 shots, residents aged 60 and older in continuing care homes and senior supportive living sites will have access to the publicly funded Abrysvo vaccine for RSV through the Alberta Outreach Program. Seniors aged 75 and older may also obtain a limited supply of the provincially funded Abrysvo vaccine. For those not covered by the provincial program, vaccines will be available for purchase, officials noted.

Health guidelines stipulate that while COVID-19 and influenza vaccines may be administered on the same day, the RSV vaccine must be given either two weeks before or after COVID-19 and/or influenza vaccinations. Health officials are addressing a temporary distribution issue whereby clinics were notified they would not receive flu or COVID-19 vaccines in time for the start of the fall immunization program due to a contract lapse with a distribution company reported by CBC News.

Expert voices have raised concerns about the absence of supplies at family physicians’ offices potentially limiting access to vaccines. “I’m concerned about the patients who no longer have what was a known and trusted source of vaccination that is their family physician as an option this season,” said Dr. Cora Constantinescu, a pediatrician at Alberta Children’s Hospital.

Statistics indicate limited vaccine uptake among children last season, with only 12.8 percent of adolescents between ages 10 and 14 receiving the influenza vaccine, and a further 22.7 percent overall for the 2023-24 season. Similarly, a very small number, only 66 children aged between one and 14 years, were reported to have received COVID-19 immunizations last year.

Dr. Constantinescu highlighted significant challenges, particularly for young children under five, who must receive their vaccines at AHS clinics, which might pose logistical hurdles for families. “For parents with more than one child younger than five, this could become an unwanted hassle,” she commented.

Public health experts are reminding Albertans that RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 pose increased risks to younger and older demographics. With the province seeing active cases of these viruses, healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of immunizations to prevent hospital overburdening. “We’re going to have to start dealing with an RSV influx, influenza and we’re already seeing an uptick in COVID,” Dr. Constantinescu remarked, underscoring the necessity of comprehensive vaccine availability for public safety.