Starting tomorrow, a group of Albertans will be eligible to book a vaccination shot of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

There are two cohorts, the first is those who were born in 1957 and who are 64 years old this year. The second cohort is all First Nations, Metis, and Inuit born in 1972 and is 49 years old this year. All individuals must not have any severe chronic illnesses. 

The cohort born in 1957 will be able to book their appointment by using the AHS online booking tool OR by calling Health Link at 811.

The First Nations, Metis, and Inuit groups will only be able to book by calling 811.

Albertans in the group has the choice of receiving the AstraZenca vaccine now or waiting for the Pfizer or Moderna shot at a later date.

Dr. Hinshaw explained, "As we will only receive 58,500 doses of Astra-Zeneca this week, we cannot book everyone at once as there are approximately 400,000 Albertans in that age group. This is why we will begin opening bookings based on the year you were born." 

AHS has taken strides to upgrade the online booking tool in order for the process of booking appointments to become more efficient. Also, Albertans calling 811 now have a choice to route their calls to book a COVID-19 immunization appointment or to reach a registered nurse for medical concerns. 

The combination of  AHS and 811 have the capacity to book approximately 5,000 individuals an hour. 

For more information click here.