With the gradual reduction in the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations across Alberta following a prolonged period of spikes and subsequent lockdowns, it seems we are on track to reopen soon. It is easy for us to get lost in the detailed framework announced by one province, let alone the fact that there is no national framework. Each province is handling reopening differently, and the responsibility depends largely on provincial governments and citizens in order to internalize what reopening looks like.
Given all this information, what are some key points to draw from Alberta’s reopening plan?
Alberta’s reopening is divided into 3 stages. After the date the criteria for each stage is fulfilled, the province will ease restrictions 2 weeks after. The government anticipates all restrictions will be lifted, including bans on indoor gatherings, by late June or early July.
Stage 1:
50% of the eligible population must be immunized with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Fewer than 800 total hospitalizations.
Stage 2:
60% of the eligible population must be immunized with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Fewer than 500 total hospitalizations.
Stage 3:
70% of the eligible population must be immunized with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
How does this compare to the reopening plans announced by other provinces? For one, it’s a lot faster. Alberta plans to lift all restrictions by late June or early July given current vaccination rates, months ahead of British Columbia or Ontario, both of whom are scheduled to fully open later this summer.
This could mean a few things. Assuming the reopening goes well and criteria is met, perhaps other provinces will adopt Alberta’s framework as a method of getting life back to “normal” as soon as possible. However, if this plan does not go as smoothly as planned, it is likely other provinces will proceed ahead with their anticipated timelines, and Albertans may be facing yet another lockdown.
With large summer events like Stampede slated to go ahead as planned, it is entirely possible they will take place with no restrictions at all. As for whether or not such mass gatherings will cause an influx in cases given current vaccination rates, only time will tell. But given the public’s itch to enjoy the few months of mountain sunshine in the province, it is safe to say cautious optimism is rising.
Thank you for reading this post! Enjoy your last few weeks of school and get vaccinated!
