Alberta has completely lifted the restrictions
But a small number of measures will remain for the time being.
On July 1, the province of Alberta moved to the final phase of its restriction removal plan. This means residents can now gather freely in buildings and on the street, businesses operate freely, and wearing masks is no longer required.
As of July 1, the province had vaccinated 72.8% of the population over the age of 12 and 42.4% had had both vaccinations. The Alberta Ministry of Health estimates that 50% of residents will be fully immunized by July 6.
Provincial Premier Jason Kenney called July 1 "a fantastic day," adding that Alberta has defeated COVID-19 and residents can return to normal life again. Health Minister Tyler Shandro and Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw, in turn, urged anyone who has not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated.
Despite the removal of most of the restrictions, a number of measures will still remain in place, namely:
- Mandatory 10-day self-isolation for people with confirmed COVID-19, as well as quarantine for those who have had contact with them (duration depends on vaccination status);
- Mandatory wearing of masks in hospitals, long-term care facilities, public transport, taxis.
Alberta is also currently running a lottery for vaccinated people to win valuable prizes. The first $1 million CAD has already found its winner.
