A complete two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series provides strong protection against COVID-19 infection and severe outcomes, including against the Delta variant, in the general population.
However, for some populations, a third dose of vaccine may be required to provide stronger protection for those who have a suboptimal or waning immune response to vaccines, which puts them at increased risk of COVID-19 infection.
To continue protecting Alberta’s most vulnerable, as recommended by the Alberta Advisory Committee on Immunization, the province is making third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine available to those at highest-risk.
Starting September 1, 2021, third doses of COVID-19 vaccine are available for the following high-risk individuals:
- certain groups of immunocompromised Albertans at an eight-week interval from the second dose, and
- all residents in seniors’ congregate living facilities at a five-month interval from the second dose.
In addition, supplemental mRNA doses are available to Albertans who are travelling to a jurisdiction that does not accept visitors who have been vaccinated with Covishield/AstraZeneca or a mixed series.
For additional information on qualifications for additional doses of vaccine, guidance, and other resources, refer to the full message from Deena Hinshaw, Chief Medical Officer of Health.
