We appreciate the recent comments of the Premier and Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services encouraging measles vaccination. They should be saying this every time they stand up in front of Albertans. With every new infection, it’s more apparent that we need strong, structured and unwavering support for public health measures. Right now, we need everyone to receive the same simple message:
The measles vaccine is safe and it works to prevent measles. Go get it.
As for the new COVID-19 vaccine policy, while seniors in congregate living facilities rightfully receive the vaccine for free, seniors in the community are not covered. There has also been no mention of health care workers, pregnant individuals, nor of First Nations, Inuit and Métis and members of other racialized groups. This is counter to what other jurisdictions continue to do and goes against recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
Creating unclear policy and barriers to vaccination for high-need groups is counter-productive to public health measures.
We need a structured, substantial strategy that makes it as easy as possible for those who need the vaccine most to get it. I commend the interim Chief Medical Officer of Health for stepping into the role at this time, but this job must be filled on a permanent basis by a public health and preventative medicine specialist who is trained in developing effective, safe, evidence-based public health policy.
Alberta Medical Association