The province has released the latest COVID, influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) numbers and announced when vaccines will be available for Albertans.
Twenty people died from COVID during the three-week reporting period in September amongst the almost 1,500 cases during that time.
“For COVID-19, from Sept. 3 to Sept. 23 there were a total of 1,470 cases and 286 hospitalizations, with 13 ICU admissions,” LaGrange said in a press release. “Sadly, 20 Albertans died during that period due to COVID-19.”
She characterized the current RSV and influenza levels this fall as consistent.
"Since Sept. 3, there have been 21 confirmed cases of RSV,” LaGrange said. “We've recorded 52 cases of influenza, resulting in 10 hospitalizations and no admissions to intensive care units or deaths. This is consistent activity for this time of year.”
In the coming weeks, the province will be publishing a dashboard with the statistics on RSV, influenza and COVID.
COVID/flu shot timeline
Starting Oct. 10 Albertans can book their Influenza and COVID-19 XBB vaccines online, through their local pharmacy or by calling 811.
Vaccination appointments will begin on Oct. 16. Those in care homes will have access to these vaccines starting on Oct. 2.
Are you due for a COVID booster shot?
On Sept. 28 a Pfizer vaccine targeting the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant was approved by Health Canada as was a Moderna vaccine for the same variant earlier this month.
Health Canada is recommending those who have not had a COVID vaccine or COVID infection in the last six months get the latest vaccination. Recommendations vary by region, however, so people should check the protocols for their area.
People should check with their physician if they have questions about the COVID vaccine.
