Targeted H1N1 immunization of priority groups expands
November 10, 2009
National vaccine shortage continues.
EDMONTON - On November 12 and 13, Alberta Health Services will begin offering H1N1 vaccine to more groups of individuals at high risk of developing severe illness related to influenza. As this process continues, no high risk groups will be removed from eligibility - only new groups added.
On November 12 and ongoing, new groups being added include:
- People with chronic conditions (see Backgrounder) aged 55 to 64 as of Nov. 1;
- People with chronic conditions aged 10 to 17 as of Nov. 1. (Combined with the group added Nov. 6, this group ranges from 5 to 17).
On November 13 and ongoing immunization groups will expand to include:
- People with chronic conditions aged 45 to 54 as of Nov.1. (Combined with the group added Nov. 12, this group will range from 45 to 64.)
When more vaccine becomes available from the manufacturer, the targeted immunization program will be expanded to include other high risk groups.
Previously announced high risk groups continue to be eligible:
- both parents or one parent and one caregiver of infants under six months of age;
- any children over six months and under five years as of November 1 (not required to have a chronic condition in this age group); and
- pregnant women.
All Albertans who want to be immunized will have that opportunity when increased supply of the vaccine arrives from the manufacturer. To ensure the vaccine can be provided to high risk groups at this time, no exceptions can be allowed.
For the most current information on the targeted vaccination campaign, including dates, clinic locations and groups being vaccinated, go to: www.albertahealthservices.ca
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