More than four million doses of COVID-19 vaccine shots administered in Alberta

0
165

Article content

More than four million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been given out in Alberta, the province announced Friday.

As of Thursday, 4,022,084 jabs had been given out at Alberta Health Services clinics, pharmacies and doctors offices provincewide. In total, 71.3 per cent of Albertans 12 and up have had their first shot, while 34.3 per cent have had two. Less than 0.016 per cent of all doses given in Alberta resulted in a negative reaction — nearly all were minor, provincial data shows.

Premier Jason Kenney thanked Albertans for getting vaccinated in a Friday news release.

“This tremendous achievement is made possible thanks to millions of people working together to ensure that COVID-19 no longer controls the lives of Albertans,” he said. “We will keep rolling out vaccines as we safely open for summer.”

Health Minister Tyler Shandro said four million doses was a “an amazing accomplishment” and asked those who haven’t yet booked their first or second shots to book an appointment.

Article content

Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, also said in the release that getting vaccinated helps protect not only your health but the health of the community.

“Every dose administered provides more protection for you and the people around you. Vaccines are our best defence against COVID-19, and we need as many people as possible to get fully immunized as soon as possible,” she said.

Demand for first doses of COVID-19 vaccines in Alberta has declined in recent days, prompting the government to launch a lottery to incentivize getting the jab. Vaccinated Albertans 18 and up can register for the Open for Summer Lottery, which has three draws for $1 million and vacation packages, among other prizes.

Albertans can book immunization appointments through the AHS website, local pharmacies or doctors’ offices.

People who had a first dose of Pfizer or Moderna can get either for a second dose in Alberta.

“All the COVID-19 vaccines available in Alberta are safe and effective. … Both vaccines are considered interchangeable, so book the first appointment available,” reads the news release.

More to come…

lboothby@postmedia.com

@laurby