Seniors in Red Deer and central Alberta will have more avanues to access the COVID-19 vaccine starting in the first week of March.
Alberta Health announced Wednesday in its expanded vaccine distribution plan that Alberta pharmacies will be able to administer the vaccine as of next week.
There are nine pharmacies in Red Deer participating in the program, including Johnstone IDA, Real Canadian Superstore, London Drugs (south), Notre Dame Phramasave, Save-on-Foods (Glendale), Shoppers Drug Mart (Clearview and Bower Place), The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy and Wal-Mart (Parkland).
Those pharmacies started to book appointments for seniors 75 and older as of Wednesday.
“This will make it easier for seniors to get their dose, as quickly as possible,” said Alberta Health Minister Tyler Shandro.
The number of pharmacies as part of the program is limited due to vaccine supply and strict storage and handling requirements, states a news release. As more vaccine becomes available, additional pharmacies will be able to participate in other communities.
Each participating pharmacy will adhere to strict protocols and has experience with immunizations and the specialized skills needed to safely provide COVID-19 vaccines.
Alberta Health Services will continue to book vaccines for all other eligible Albertans. Seniors age 75 and older who cannot access a community pharmacy can still book their appointments through the online booking tool.
For the list of Red Deer pharmacies, head to ab.bluecross.ca/news/covid-19-program-information.