How do I navigate Alberta’s new COVID-19 Restrictions – September 17, 2021

Alberta has declared a state of public health emergency. COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise, largely in unvaccinated Albertans. New measures to protect the health care system, stop the spread, and increase vaccination rates come into effect starting September 16.

Getting vaccinated makes us all safer. A one-time incentive of $100 is available for Albertans 18+ who get their first or second dose between September 3 and October 14. However, if you are not vaccinated, you can still support your local businesses by ordering delivery or curbside pickup.

Starting September 20, discretionary businesses and events must follow one of these 2 options:

1. Implement the Restrictions Exemption Program requiring proof of vaccination or negative test result to continue operating as usual, or
2. Follow business capacity and operating restrictions.

Businesses that choose to implement the Restrictions Exemption Program must continue to follow indoor mandatory masking requirements, but can operate without capacity or operating restrictions if they require people aged 12 and over to show one of the following:

• proof of vaccination
  • partial vaccination (one dose) accepted September 20 to October 25 if received 2 weeks before time of service
  • full vaccination (two doses) required after October 25
• proof of a privately-paid negative PCR or rapid test within 72 hours of service (tests from AHS or Alberta Precision Laboratories not allowed)
• documentation of a medical exemption

Businesses do not need to apply for the program. Audits and enforcement will occur to ensure rules are followed.

The Restriction Exemption Program would not apply to:

• businesses or entities that need to be accessed for daily living
• employees of businesses participating in the program
• children under 12

To enter spaces participating in the Restrictions Exemption Program, people aged 12 and older can show proof of a negative test result.

• Tests must be privately-paid COVID-19 PCR or rapid tests completed within 72 hours.
• Tests must not be from Alberta Health Services or Alberta Precision Laboratories.

To enter spaces participating in the Restrictions Exemption Program, people ages 12 and older can provide proof of vaccination or documentation of a medical exemption.

• Sept. 20 to Oct. 25: proof of a single dose is considered acceptable as long as the dose was given more than 2 weeks before the time of service.
• After Oct. 25: proof of double vaccination is required.

Restaurants, Cafes, Bars, and Nightclubs

Mandatory restriction – Effective Sept. 20

The following restrictions apply to businesses that do not implement the restrictions exemption program.

• Indoor dining is not permitted.
• Outdoor dining only with a maximum of 6 people per table (one household or 2 close contacts for those living alone)
• Liquor sales and consumption restrictions apply (sales end at 10pm, consumption by 11pm).

Retail, Entertainment, and Recreation Facilities

Mandatory restriction – Effective Sept. 16 and 20

Indoor retail, entertainment, and recreation facilities (Sept 20)

• The following restrictions apply to any indoor facility that does not implement the restrictions exemption program.
  • Capacity restricted to 1/3 fire code occupancy.
  • Attendees must be with household members only, or 2 close contacts if they live alone.

Outdoor events and facilities (Sept 16)

• Fully outdoor events and venues have no capacity restrictions (excluding washrooms), but must maintain 2 metres distancing between households or 2 close contact for those living alone.

How to access your vaccine records:

Online (through MyHealth Records)

• Albertans 14 and older can view their verified health records, including all vaccines, lab tests and medications, through MyHealth Records, an online tool that lets you access your personal health information from any computer, tablet or smartphone. To sign up, follow the instructions on the website.
• MyHealth Records will be automatically updated up to 2 to 3 weeks after your dose if you were vaccinated in Alberta. From your account, you can:
  • print a convenient size card (starting September 19)
  • download and use the app to show or take a screenshot of your record

Paper records

• You will receive an immunization record at your vaccination appointment.
• If you lost or require another paper copy, you can print one from MyHealth Records or request a copy through your immunization provider:
  • Pharmacy or physician’s office – contact the location you received your vaccination
  • AHS Clinic – call 811 to request a copy of your record mailed to you
• Albertans between the ages of 12 and 14 must obtain a paper record from their immunization provider.

Please carry valid photo government ID with your vaccine records to ensure your identity.

More more information please visit: https://www.alberta.ca/covid-19-public-health-actions.aspx