Second dose required for Restrictions Exemption Program starting Oct. 25

By KENDALL KING, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on October 23, 2021.

kking@medicinehatnews.com

The Alberta government declared Friday, that beginning Oct. 25, a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is required for the Restrictions Exemption Program. The second dose must have been administered at least 14 days prior.

Individuals who are not yet fully vaccinated are still able to access businesses and venues participating in REP by providing a privately-paid, negative COVID-19 test, taken within the last 72 hours, or proof of medical exemption.

Jason Copping, Alberta’s Minister of Health, said in a release that the increase in vaccinations is having a clear impact on the provinces’ COVID-19 situation.

“I strongly encourage every eligible Albertan to get fully vaccinated as soon as possible,” Copping says in the release. “The rising vaccination rates combined with our public health measures are helping to drive down the number of new and active cases and relieve the pressure on our health-care system.”

Chief Medical Office of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, thanked Albertans for choosing to get vaccinated and encouraged anyone not fully vaccinated to do so.

“With the Delta variant, the second dose is even more important, so by getting both doses, you are increasing your protection and helping make your community safer,” said Hinshaw.

The REP currently applies to individuals aged 12 and older.

9
-8