The Alberta Routine Immunization Schedule is a comprehensive program designed to protect individuals against vaccine-preventable diseases. The schedule outlines the recommended vaccinations for individuals from birth to adulthood, with a focus on preventing serious illnesses such as measles, mumps, rubella, and meningitis. In Alberta, the immunization schedule is developed and updated regularly by Alberta Health, in collaboration with the Alberta Medical Association and other health organizations.
Overview of the Alberta Routine Immunization Schedule
The Alberta Routine Immunization Schedule is divided into several age-based categories, including infant, child, adolescent, and adult immunizations. The schedule recommends a series of vaccinations at specific ages, with some vaccinations requiring multiple doses to ensure optimal protection. For example, the DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine is recommended at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months of age, while the MMR vaccine is recommended at 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age.
Infant Immunizations (0-12 months)
Infants in Alberta are eligible for a range of vaccinations, including the hepatitis B vaccine at birth, the DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months, and the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine at 2, 4, and 12 months. These vaccinations provide protection against serious diseases such as hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and pneumococcal disease.
| Vaccine | Recommended Age |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis B vaccine | Birth |
| DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine | 2, 4, 6, and 18 months |
| Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine | 2, 4, and 12 months |
Child Immunizations (1-12 years)
Children in Alberta are eligible for a range of vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine at 12-15 months and 4-6 years, the varicella vaccine at 12-15 months, and the DTaP-IPV vaccine at 4-6 years. These vaccinations provide protection against serious diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella.
| Vaccine | Recommended Age |
|---|---|
| MMR vaccine | 12-15 months and 4-6 years |
| Varicella vaccine | 12-15 months |
| DTaP-IPV vaccine | 4-6 years |
Adolescent and Adult Immunizations
Adolescents and adults in Alberta are eligible for a range of vaccinations, including the Tdap vaccine at 14-16 years, the meningococcal conjugate vaccine at 14-16 years, and the influenza vaccine annually. These vaccinations provide protection against serious diseases such as pertussis, meningitis, and influenza.
| Vaccine | Recommended Age |
|---|---|
| Tdap vaccine | 14-16 years |
| Meningococcal conjugate vaccine | 14-16 years |
| Influenza vaccine | Annually |
What is the recommended immunization schedule for infants in Alberta?
+The recommended immunization schedule for infants in Alberta includes the hepatitis B vaccine at birth, the DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months, and the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine at 2, 4, and 12 months.
What are the risks of not following the recommended immunization schedule?
+The risks of not following the recommended immunization schedule include increased susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases, which can lead to serious illness, hospitalization, and even death.
In conclusion, the Alberta Routine Immunization Schedule is a comprehensive program that provides protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. By following the recommended immunization schedule, individuals can reduce their risk of serious illness and help protect their communities from the spread of disease.
