Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, provides daily updates on COVID-19 and the ongoing work to protect public health of Albertans.

Stronger public health measures

Mandatory, province-wide restrictions are in effect to protect the health system and slow the spread of COVID-19. Protecting Alberta’s healthcare capacity ensures that Albertans get the care they need when they need it.

COVID-19 regional active cases
COVID-19 Alberta statistics
Outbreak update from Government of Canada
Global situation dashboard from World Health Organization

Submit a complaint online; Help Save Lives

You can submit a complaint online to Alberta Health Services public health inspectors if you are concerned that an establishment or person is not following public health orders. Public health inspectors will investigate the complaint.

Submit a complaint online; Help Save Lives

Symptoms of COVID-19 can vary from person to person, and may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19. Evidence indicates that the virus can be transmitted to others from someone who is infected but not showing symptoms. This includes people who have not yet developed symptoms (pre-symptomatic) or never develop symptoms (asymptomatic).

Core symptoms

Some of the more commonly reported symptoms (core symptoms) include:

• Fever (temperature equal to or over 38°C)
• Cough (new cough or worsening chronic cough)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (new or worsening)
• Runny nose or sore throat (core symptoms for adults)
• Loss of sense of smell or taste

If you have any of these core symptoms, you need to isolate for at least 10 days from the start of your symptoms or until they are gone, whichever is longer, or until you test negative.

Other symptoms (Adults over 18)

If you have any of these other symptoms, stay home and minimize your contact with others until your symptoms resolve. Testing is recommended.

• Stuffy nose
• Painful swallowing
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle or joint aches
• Feeling unwell or fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained loss of appetite
• Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye

Other symptoms (Children under 18)

If they have one of these other symptoms, have them stay home for 24 hours and get tested if their symptoms don't improve. If they have two or more of these other symptoms, have them get tested and stay home until the symptoms are gone or until they test negative.

• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Painful swallowing
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle or joint aches
• Feeling unwell or fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained loss of appetite
• Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye

Monitor your symptoms

Monitor your health and call Health Link 811, or your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns. Call 911 immediately if you are experiencing severe symptoms of COVID-19, including difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, feelings of confusion or loss of consciousness.

Book a test

You should stay home and get tested if you have any COVID-19 symptom or known exposure to COVID-19. Book a testing appointment online with the AHS assessment tool or call Health Link 811. Call 911 immediately if experiencing severe symptoms of COVID-19, including difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, feelings of confusion or loss of consciousness.

Take the Assessment / Book a Test
Learn about the Rapid Testing Program

Variants are viruses that have changed or mutated while reproducing inside an infected person’s cells. Variants can spread to others and may continue mutating as they move from person to person. It is normal for viruses to mutate over time.

Variants of concern can spread more easily. They can also cause more serious illness that could result in more hospitalizations and deaths as they become common in the community. Anyone who has been infected with a variant strain will test positive for COVID-19. Positive tests are screened again for all variants to determine the exact strain.

COVID-19 variants of concern first identified in other countries have since been detected in Alberta and around the world. Alberta is monitoring for variants spreading in our province. Confirmed cases are updated daily.

Interactive aggregate data on COVID-19 cases in Alberta
Data on vaccine effectiveness
National Advisory Committee on Immunizations
Public Health Agency of Canada

B.1.1.7 Variant (Alpha)

First identified in the United Kingdom, research has shown this variant spreads more easily and can cause more severe illness in comparison to the original COVID-19 strain.

B.1.351 Variant (Beta)

First identified in South Africa, research has shown this variant spreads more easily than the original COVID-19 strain and may be capable of re-infecting people who have previously tested positive for COVID-19.

P.1 Variant (Gamma)

First identified in Brazil, research has shown this variant spreads more easily than the original COVID-19 strain and is capable of re-infecting people who have previously tested positive for COVID-19.

B.1.617.2 (Delta)

First identified in India, this is now the most common variant of concern in Alberta. Research has shown this variant spreads more easily than the B.1.1.7 (Alpha) variant and may be capable of re-infecting people who have previously tested positive for COVID-19.

B.1.1.529 Variant (Omicron)

Early evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of transmission and reinfection with this variant, so people who have been previously infected with COVID-19 could be reinfected more easily. There is no evidence of increased disease severity yet. However, evidence is still emerging.

Assessing personal risk

When assessing your personal risk, it is important to consider your setting, individual health and wellness factors, and comfort level. Consult your healthcare provider if you want help assessing your personal risk of severe outcomes or determining your personal risk level.

Factors that increase COVID-19 risk:

• You are not fully vaccinated yet
• You regularly interact with children 11 and under who cannot be vaccinated yet
• You attend crowded indoor spaces
• You have risk factors for severe health outcomes from COVID-19

Factors that lower COVID-19 risk:

• You are fully vaccinated
• You mostly socialize outdoors, instead of indoors
• You have a small social circle
• You can normally maintain distancing from other people

If you haven’t got vaccinated because you have questions, call Health Link 811 or speak to a trusted healthcare worker. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, and there has never been a more important time to get vaccinated to protect yourself, your loved ones and our healthcare system. Have the conversation and get the facts from a trusted and credible source.

Vaccine effectiveness against infection declines over time – and is lower with the highly transmissible Omicron variant – but they remain the best way to prevent severe illness and death. Additional doses can boost immunity to improve protection and limit spread.

Book your shot using the AHS COVID-19 & Influenza Immunization online booking tool
Book your shot at a participating pharmacy
Find a walk-in clinic
Find a family Doctor
Call Health Link at 811
Access your immunization records through MyHealth Records

Every Albertan who can get vaccinated, should get vaccinated. Vaccines make our immune systems stronger by building antibodies to help prevent and fight off diseases. Because COVID-19 is a new virus, no one has natural immunity. It is much safer and more effective to get immunized than it is to get infected.

Vaccine safety

Thanks to worldwide collaboration, COVID-19 vaccines were developed quickly without compromising safety. Every approved vaccine has met Health Canada's strict standards for safety, quality and effectiveness.

Learn about Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine
Learn about Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
Learn about Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
Learn about AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine

Need a ride?

Isolated seniors and those with mobility challenges can call 211 to get help finding a ride to and from their vaccination appointment.

Contact 211 to get help finding a ride

Need time off work?

All working Albertans can access 3 hours of paid, job-protected leave to get each dose of the vaccine.

Paid COVID-19 vaccination leave

Translated resources

COVID-19 resources are available in عربي, 中文, हिंदी, 한국어, فارسی, ਪੰਜਾਬੀ, Af-Soomaali, Español, Français, Tagalog, Tiếng Việt and اردو.

COVID-19 translated resources

Alberta vaccine records with QR codes (paper or digital) is the only valid Alberta-issued proof of vaccination. When scanned, it displays your name, birthdate and vaccination status. It is not connected to other personal information.

Get your vaccine record

• Albertans can get their vaccine record with QR code at alberta.ca/CovidRecords:
  • It's fast and easy – no account required; enter your personal healthcare number, birthdate, and month and year of vaccination
  • Download your card and print out, or save it on your phone
  • If you were vaccinated recently, it may take up to 2 weeks for your records to be available online
• For help accessing or printing a vaccine record:
  • Visit a participating Registry Agent to print your record at no cost
  • Call Health Link 811 to have your record mailed to you
  • Go to alberta.ca/CovidRecordsHelp if you need technical assistance

Update or correct your vaccine record

Incorrect information on vaccine record:

• If your vaccine record has missing or incorrect information, consult the tips on our Covid Records Help Desk
• You will need to get a new vaccine record every time you get another dose

Vaccinated in Alberta without personal health number:

• If you were vaccinated in Alberta but don't have an Alberta Personal Health Number, call 811 to get a vaccine record with QR code mailed to you
• If you become eligible for an Alberta Personal Health Number, you can use it to access your vaccine record online at alberta.ca/CovidRecords

Alberta residents vaccinated outside Alberta:

• If you or your children under 18 were partially or fully vaccinated outside of Alberta, update your health records by submitting your digital out-of-province/country immunization records online at ahs.ca/vaccineregistry
• Submitted records will be reviewed by AHS
• If more information is required to validate your record, AHS will contact you
• If your record cannot be validated, a letter will be sent (book an appointment to begin or complete a valid COVID-19 vaccination series)
• Verified information will be available on alberta.ca/CovidRecords in up to 2 weeks

New to Alberta:

• If you recently moved to Alberta, use your provincial vaccine record with a QR code or out-of-country vaccine record
• New residents who were not vaccinated in Alberta cannot get an Alberta-issued vaccine record

Update records in another province or country:

• If you were vaccinated in Alberta but are from another province or country, you can send them your Alberta immunization record(s) to update their vaccination system (check the instructions for your home province or country)

When to show proof of vaccination

Inter-provincial travel:

• Some provinces may require travellers from Alberta to provide proof of vaccination to visit or access certain business or services (check before you go)
• Show your Alberta vaccine record along with valid personal ID

International travel:

Foreign countries may require Canadian travellers to provide proof of vaccination to visit. Check the requirements of individual countries, state/local governments, cruise lines and events before travelling. Your proof does not guarantee entry to another country.

Alberta's vaccine record has been updated to meet the Canadian standard for domestic and international travel. Get your vaccine record from alberta.ca/CovidRecords before travelling. Provinces retain the vaccination records of their respective residents. Your data will not be shared with the federal or other provincial governments.

Learn more about travelling abroad during COVID.

Current COVID-19 scams

There are a number of reported scams related to COVID-19.

Listing of known COVID-19 scams
Verify that a charity is registered
Learn about cyber security

Protect yourself, beware of:

• Potential counterfeit vaccine passports
• Potential counterfeit COVID-19 vaccines:
• Private companies selling fraudulent products that claim to treat or prevent the disease
• Unapproved drugs threaten public health and violate federal laws
• The only way to access safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is through clinics organized or endorsed by your local public health authority in collaboration with Canada's federal, provincial and territorial governments
• Coronavirus-themed emails or text messages and COVID-19 vaccination themed emails or text messages that are trying to:
  • Trick you into installing malicious COVID-19 notification apps
  • Trick you into opening malicious attachments
  • Trick you to reveal sensitive personal and financial details
• Unsolicited calls claiming to be from a private company or healthcare providers offering home vaccination kits for an up-front fee
• Private companies offering fast COVID-19 tests for sale:
  • Only official health care providers can perform the tests
  • No other tests are genuine or guaranteed to provide accurate results
• Questionable third-party companies offer to help you fill out applications, such as CERB
• Criminals using your identity to sign-up for CERB and receive payments
• Spoofed government, healthcare or research information
• Unsolicited calls, emails and texts requesting urgent action or payment and/or offering medical advice, financial relief, or government assistance and compensation:
  • If you didn't initiate contact, you don't know who you're communicating to
  • Never respond or click on suspicious links and attachments
  • Never give out your personal or financial details
• Unauthorized or fraudulent charities requesting money for victims, products or research (don't be pressured into making a donation)
• High-priced or low-quality products purchased in bulk by consumers and resold for profit
  • These items may be expired and/or dangerous to your health
• Questionable offers, such as vaccine passports, miracle cures, herbal remedies, vaccinations and faster testing
• Fake and deceptive online ads, including: cleaning products, hand sanitizers and other items in high demand

Reporting a fraud or scam

If you or a family member have been contacted by a scammer, report it to us — even if you didn't give them any money.

What to do if you're a victim of fraud
Report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

Trusted resources and advice

• Refer to Government of Canada information on legitimate COVID-19 vaccines
• Refer to Government of Canada COVID-19 health, financial and security resources
• Refer to Financial Consumer Agency of Canada COVID-19 information
• Reference the latest health information from these legitimate sources:
  • Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) (Public Health Agency of Canada)
  • Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak (World Health Organization)
• Contact your insurance provider to answer any health insurance questions
• Make sure you have anti-virus software installed and keep your operating system up to date
• Refer to the Government of Canada webpages on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit
• Report any unauthorized credit applications to the associated financial institution and the credit bureaus: Equifax and TransUnion

Step one: Effective February 9
The following changes took effect February 9, 2022, unless otherwise stated.

• Restrictions Exemption Program removed, along with most associated restrictions
• Capacity limits extended to all large facilities and entertainment venues (500+), but food and beverage consumption now allowed in seats
• Physical distancing of 2 metres between households encouraged, operators to facilitate distancing between patrons where possible
• Mandatory masking requirements removed for:
  • Children under 13 in all settings as of February 14
  • Students of any age attending K-12 schools and participating in school activities as of February 14

Step two: Effective March 1
The following changes took effect March 1, 2022, unless otherwise stated.

• Any remaining school requirements removed (for example: Kindergarten to grade 6 cohorting)
• Youth screening activities for entertainment and sport activities removed
• Capacity on all large venues and entertainment venues lifted
• Restrictions lifted on interactive activities, table limits, liquor sales and closing times for bars, restaurants and other food serving businesses
• Indoor and outdoor social gathering limits lifted, including for all wedding and funeral events
• Mandatory work-from-home requirements lifted
• Provincial mask mandate lifted except:
  • On municipal and intra-provincial public transit for Albertans 13 and older
  • At AHS-operated and contracted facilities, and all continuing care settings

Step three: To be determined
The timeline for Alberta entering Step 3 is to be determined and will depend on hospitalization rates continuing to trend downward.

• COVID-specific continuing care measures removed
• Mandatory isolation removed (becomes a recommendation only)

Starting December 17, 2021, COVID-19 Rapid Test Kits are available to Albertans to use at home. Employers and service providers can apply to receive free Rapid Test Kits for use in their organization’s COVID-19 screening program. Rapid Test Kits were successfully piloted in long-term care, outbreaks, hospitals, homeless shelters and industry.

Learn about the Rapid Testing Program

At-home rapid testing

Albertans can get a free COVID-19 rapid Antigen test kit for at-home use on a first-come first-served basis while supplies last. Limit of one box per person within 14 days. Rapid tests can detect pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases – people who don’t know they’re infected with COVID-19. Increasing at-home rapid testing will help identify infections early to stop the spread.

If you develop COVID-related symptoms, or test positive on a rapid test, isolate immediately and book a PCR test at an AHS Assessment Centre.

Where to get Rapid Test Kits

Rapid test kits can be picked up at select locations across the province, while supplies last. These tests are intended for at-home personal use. Rapid tests are only for people without COVID-19 symptoms, or for those who may have had a recent COVID exposure. Kits are available on a first-come first-served basis, with a limit of one box (five tests per box) of tests within a 14-day period per person.

Rapid test kits cannot be used for the Restrictions Exemption Program or travel.

Select pharmacies in Edmonton, Calgary and Red Deer
Select AHS clinics in other communities

Eligibility

To ensure as many people have access as possible, there is a limit of one box per person within a 14-day period (must provide your personal healthcare number). You can pick up one additional box for another person(s) if you provide their healthcare number.

• Rapid tests can be used by symptom-free people aged 14 and older and children aged 2 to 13 if performed by an adult
• These rapid test kits cannot be used for the Restrictions Exemption Program
• Unvaccinated people must pay to obtain proof of negative test result through a private vendor or pharmacy to gain admission

How to test

• Each kit contains 5 rapid tests because it takes time for your body to develop enough protein to be detectable by a rapid test after being exposed to COVID-19 (repeated screening can help detect infection as soon as possible)
• Perform rapid tests twice per week, 72 hours apart, for 2 weeks as long as you are asymptomatic (for example: Sunday and Wednesday or Monday and Thursday)
• The fifth test in the pack is a spare in case you get an invalid test result
• Follow the instructions for Option B: Nasal Swab provided on the BTNX Procedure Card included in the kit (do not follow instructions for Option A: Nasopharyngeal Swab)
  • Read: COVID-19 Rapid Testing Information Sheet
  • Watch: How to perform a BTNX COVID-19 Rapid Test

Positive test result

• If you have a positive test result, stop performing rapid tests
• Immediately isolate for 10 days or until you have a negative PCR test
• You should book a PCR test at an Alberta Health Services assessment centre:
  • If the PCR test is positive, you must continue isolating and follow all public health orders
  • If the PCR test is negative, you no longer need to isolate unless you develop symptoms
  • If you do not get a PCR test, you are legally required to isolate for 10 days
• Inform everyone you were in close contact with (in the 48 hour period before your positive antigen result), that they should quarantine and get a rapid testing kit

Negative and invalid test results

A negative result does not rule out infection, you could still have COVID-19 even though the test is negative. You are not required to isolate but you must continue to follow all public health guidelines. If your test result does not match either the negative or the positive examples on the procedure card, you should re-test until you receive a positive or negative result.

Test types: Antigen and PCR
Learn the difference between an Antigen rapid test and a PCR test.

An Antigen test looks for a protein from the virus that causes COVID-19. This is a simple test that does not require specialized equipment and can produce a result in as little as 15 minutes.

Antigen tests are less sensitive than PCR tests. This means they can be negative even when someone is infected. For this reason, even if someone gets a negative result on a rapid antigen test, they must continue to follow all public health guidelines.

A PCR test looks for the genetic material of the virus that causes COVID-19. PCR tests can only be done in a lab by an expert and it can take 1 to 3 days to get a test result. This is a highly sensitive test and can identify the virus earlier in an infection than an antigen test.

Masks and physical distancing
Mandatory restriction province-wide, effective December 21, 2021.

• Masking and 2 metres physical distancing are mandatory in all indoor public spaces, workplaces, and places of worship
• Employees must mask in all indoor work settings, except while alone in work stations
• Masks are still required in places that implement the Restrictions Exemption Program
• Masks should fit well and be of high quality
• People at risk of severe outcomes should wear medical masks when in settings with people outside of their household

Learn more about mask requirements

Schools (K to 12)

To support their overall wellbeing, ECS to Grade 12 students returned to classrooms on January 10 with measures to continue learning safely. Learn more about the return to in-person learning.

Post-secondary institutions
Mandatory restriction province-wide, effective September 20, 2021.

• Post-secondary institutions are not eligible for the Restrictions Exemption Program
• However, post-secondaries can implement a proof of vaccination program for students to be eligible for an exemption that permits the following:
  • Students and staff do not have to maintain physical distancing in learning environments where there is no access to persons not part of the program (physical distancing is required in common spaces)
  • Cafeterias and dining halls can be open for staff and students to dine indoors, with no requirement to physically distance or sit only with members of your household or your 2 close contacts, and no limit on the number of people per table
  • Note: other public health measures, such as mandatory masking in all public spaces and restrictions around adult physical and performance activities, continue to apply
• All post-secondary proof of vaccine programs must ensure:
  • All students have been vaccinated with at least a first dose of a World Health Organization (WHO) approved COVID-19 vaccine no later than September 20, 2021, and be fully immunized with a WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccine no later than November 1, 2021
    • Full immunization occurs 14 days after the second dose is received
  • Students who remain unvaccinated or are vaccinated after these dates must be able to show:
    • Proof of medical exemption from vaccination or
    • Produce negative results from COVID-19 tests that are conducted regularly (for example, twice weekly) by the institution or a private test provider
  • Note: Proof of vaccination is not required from staff and contractors
• If a post-secondary institution decides not to implement a proof of vaccination program, it must follow all public health measures in Order 44-2021.

Masks
Mandatory restrictions effective March 1, 2022, unless otherwise stated.

• The provincial mask mandate has been lifted for most settings, except:
  • On municipal and intra-provincial public transit for Albertans 13 and older
  • At all AHS-operated and contracted facilities
  • At all continuing care settings
  • Continuous masking must be followed for up to 5 days following mandatory isolation due to COVID infection for vaccinated individuals (for more information, see the isolation page)
• If a person chooses to wear one, masks should fit well and be of high quality. People at risk of severe outcomes should continue to wear medical masks when in settings with people outside of their household.

Learn more about masks

Testing

• PCR testing for Albertans is available only for those who have clinical risk factors for severe outcomes and those who live and work in high-risk settings
• Free rapid antigen testing kits are available for at-home use
• Wastewater monitoring is used to provide a broad picture of infection levels in a community

Isolation requirements
Mandatory restrictions effective March 1, 2022, unless otherwise stated.

• Isolation is still legally required for people who have COVID-19 symptoms or tested positive (learn more about the isolation requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated Albertans)
• Quarantine is no longer legally required for close contacts of positive cases, unless directed to do so by local public health officials
• International travellers must still follow federal travel requirements

Contact tracing and case investigation

• Individuals with positive tests will continue to be notified
• Contact tracers will not notify close contacts of positive cases, but will ask that individuals do so when informed of their positive result
• Contact tracers will continue to investigate cases in high-risk settings, such as acute and continuing care

Outbreaks

• Outbreak management and identification will focus on high-risk locations, including continuing and acute care and high-risk workplaces
• Community outbreaks with a surge in cases leading to severe outcomes will be addressed as needed

Health care and congregate care settings
Mandatory restrictions effective March 1, 2022, unless otherwise stated.

• Masking is required in all AHS-operated and contracted facilities, and all continuing care facilities
• Existing public health orders for acute care remain in place
• Public health orders for continuing care remain in place
• For more information on current restrictions in these settings, see protecting residents at congregate care facilities

General guidance and resources are available to help Albertans and businesses follow best practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

• General guidance for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses – optional mitigations to protect the health of your staff and customers

The pandemic has drastically changed the way we live, work, and connect with each other in a very short period of time. Right now it is normal to be experiencing a whole host of emotions, including anxiety, anger, sadness, and uncertainty. Our minds and our bodies are closely connected, so it is also likely that you are losing sleep and experiencing other physical symptoms, such as muscle tension, aches and pains, headaches, and low energy.

How will this toolkit help? We all need to find a sense of control right now. This toolkit is designed to help you focus on the parts of your life that you can take charge of and stop spending energy on the things you cannot control.

Taking Charge of What You Can: A COVID-19 Toolkit

Canadians are being asked to practice physical distancing to decrease the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Many Canadians now work from home, cancelling large meetings, and generally limiting their physical interactions with their colleagues, peers, and family.

These new restrictions may affect the physical and mental health of Canadians. Now more than ever is the time to adhere to healthy lifestyle behaviours, including a good night’s sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and moderating your sedentary time to maintain a healthy immune system and build a strong defence. Getting some time outdoors every day if you can, is also important to combat feelings of depression and anxiety that may come with self-isolation.

What does adhering to healthy movement behaviours look like? The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology has published Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the early years, children and youth, and Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for adults, and older adults.

• Learn more about Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines
• Learn the guidelines for the Early Years (0 to 4)
• Learn the guidelines for Children and Youth (5 to 17)
• Learn the guidelines for Adults (18 to 64)
• Learn the guidelines for Seniors (65+)

Please note that the information published here is based on current recommendations. However, the situation surrounding COVID-19 is constantly evolving and recommendations may be subject to change. For updated information, please check with your local public health authority.

Help in Tough Times; we're here to help

At some point in our lives we all have stressful times. We can be impacted by such things as financial pressures, unexpected difficulties, unemployment, or stressful situations such as the current outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Support is available from Alberta Health Service Addiction and Mental Health, although how the services are provided may have changed. AHS has resources and services, such as Text4Hope and Togetherall, available to help you or someone you know.

Talk to Someone 24/7

• Dial 911 for Emergency Assistance
• Call the Mental Health Helpline at 1.877.303.2642 or visit AHS Mental Health Support
• Call the Addiction Helpline at 1.866.332.2322 or visit AHS Addiction Support

Text4Hope

Text4Hope is a free service providing three months of daily Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT–based text messages written by mental health therapists. An Alberta-based innovation, Text4Hope is an evidence-based tool that helps people identify and adjust the negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours a pandemic might be expected to provoke.

Through a set of daily messages, people receive advice and encouragement helpful in developing healthy personal coping skills and resiliency. Community members simply subscribe to receive ongoing supportive content. There is no cost, however standard message rates pay apply. Please check with your mobile provider.

Text COVID19HOPE to 393939 to subscribe.

Togetherall

Togetherall is a clinically moderated, online peer-to-peer mental health community that empowers individuals to anonymously seek and provide support 24/7. Togetherall is free to all Albertans aged 16-plus, register using your Alberta postal code.

• A safe and vibrant online community where individuals remain anonymous to each other and can draw strength and insights from others that have real lived experiences
• Resources that are easily accessible and active 24/7/365, no formal referral needed
• Peace of mind knowing the community is clinically moderated by registered mental health practitioners who ensure individuals are kept safe and feel supported
• Access to additional self-assessments, recommended resources and self-guided courses to help foster positive mental health and wellbeing
• Creative tools to help members express and track how they are feeling in a way that feels comfortable to them

Check out Mental Health Tools and Resources
Learn more about Help in Tough Times; we’re here to help

Help is still available even if you are infected or in isolation. If you or someone you know is at risk of family violence, help is available. Call Alberta’s 24-hour Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818 to get anonymous help in over 170 languages. Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger. Police and RCMP will respond even if you have COVID-19 or are in self-isolation or quarantine and experiencing symptoms.

Family violence is an abuse of power in a family or other trusting relationship where people rely on each other. When someone experiences family violence, their well-being, security and survival are threatened. Rates of family violence increase during and following natural disasters, public health crises and economic downturns. It is important to know where you can turn if you are experiencing family violence during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Learn more about family violence and getting help 24/7
• Family Violence Info Line Chat
• Find local emergency shelters and temporary housing

As older adults are more at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an increased need for them to practice physical (social) distancing and self-isolation. This may make them more vulnerable to abuse. The Family Violence Info Line (310-1818) can assist with information on elder abuse shelters and community resources.

• Learn how to recognize signs of elder abuse
• Find local emergency shelters and temporary housing

Call 911 if you or the person you are reporting is in immediate danger.

Children are at a much higher risk for neglect and abuse during times of uncertainty and crisis. Help is still available even if you are infected or in isolation. Call the Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-387-5437 (KIDS) to get help if you, or children you know, are being neglected, emotionally or physically abused or sexually exploited. If you believe a child is at risk, you must report it. Help is available in multiple languages 24/7.

What is child abuse, neglect and sexual exploitation
Find out how to recognize and know the warning signs

Individuals and families can access emergency shelters and temporary housing when they face family violence or homelessness. Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger. There are three types of accommodation you can access when leaving a violent or abusive situation:

• Women’s emergency shelters: a safe location where women and children can get help and connect with supports
• Women’s second stage housing: short-term, affordable housing with help for women and children to permanently leave and start a new life
• Seniors’ emergency shelters: a temporary place for older adults to stay and get supports

If you need a place for pets to stay when leaving an abusive situation, there are pet safekeeping programs that offer temporary pet care at no charge. Find the nearest program through the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

• Help is just a click away: ShelterSafe.ca 
• Learn more about escaping family violence
• Find the nearest program for your pet

Service Canada provides Canadians with a single point of access to a wide range of government services and benefits. They are committed to improving services for Canadians by working with partners to provide access to the full range of government services and benefits that Canadians want and need through the Internet, by telephone, in person or by mail.

• Attention! Service Canada Ready to Help
• Learn more about Service Canada
• Learn about Employment and Social Development Canada

Restrictions Exemption Program Implementation Grant

A one-time payment of $2,000 to eligible Alberta small and medium-sized businesses, cooperatives and non-profit organizations is now available for those participating in the Restrictions Exemption Program.

Learn more about the REP Implementation Grant

Restrictions Exemption Program safety training

Online training is available at no cost to employers and their employees to help them assess and manage challenging situations that may arise during their daily operations. The training includes information that workers need to keep themselves and customers safe while implementing COVID-19 safety requirements, such requesting proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test, physical distancing or masking.

Employers must enroll for the training on behalf of their employees. After enrolling, employers will receive an access code via email to share with their employees.

Learn more and enroll in REP safety training

The Alberta Jobs Now program will provide up to $370 million to help private and non-profit businesses with job supports to get thousands of Albertans back to work. Employers can apply for funding to offset the cost of hiring and training unemployed or underemployed Albertans in new or vacant positions.

This federal-provincial investment is the largest job training program in Alberta’s history. It will support our province’s recovery, help businesses re-open or grow their workforce, and give Albertans an opportunity to gain the skills they need in today’s job market.

Learn more about the Alberta Jobs Now program

Employment Insurance (EI) program

The government has made temporary changes to the Employment Insurance (EI) program to better support Canadians who need financial assistance. As of September 27, 2020, the minimum benefit rate is $500 per week before taxes in most cases.

Learn more about the Employment Insurance (EI) program
Apply for EI

Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit (CWLB)

The government is proposing the new Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit that would provide $300 a week to eligible workers who are unable to work due to a temporary local lockdown anytime between October 24, 2021 and May 7, 2022. The government is proposing to make the benefit available retroactively and available for the entire duration of a government-imposed lockdown. Eligible workers would include those who are ineligible for Employment insurance.

Learn more about CWLB

Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)

The CRSB gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are unable to work because they are sick or need to self-isolate due to COVID-19, or have an underlying health condition that puts them at greater risk of getting COVID-19. The CRSB is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency. If you are eligible for the CRSB, you can receive $500 for a 1-week period. If your situation continues, you will need to apply again.

Learn more about CRSB

Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)

The CRCB gives income support to employed and self-employed individuals who are unable to work because they must care for their child under 12 years old or a family member who needs supervised care. This applies if their school, regular program or facility is closed or unavailable to them due to COVID-19, or because they are sick, self-isolating, or at risk of serious health complications due to COVID-19. The CRCB is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency.

If you are eligible for the CRCB, your household can receive $500 for each 1-week period. If your situation continues, you will need to apply again.

Learn more about CRCB

Canada Workers Benefit

The Canada Workers Benefit is a refundable tax credit to help individuals and families who are working and earning a low income. The CWB has two parts: a basic amount and a disability supplement. You can claim the CWB when you file your income tax return. Eligible individuals and families can get up to half of the CWB in advance payments instead of waiting for tax time.

Learn more about CWB

Mortgage payment deferral

Homeowners facing financial hardship may be eligible for a mortgage payment deferral. The deferral is an agreement between you and your lender. Typically, the agreement indicates that you and your lender have agreed to pause or suspend your mortgage payments for a certain amount of time. After the agreement ends, your mortgage payments return to normal and the deferred payments — including principal and accumulated interest – are added to the outstanding principal balance and subsequently repaid throughout the life of the mortgage.

To know if you are eligible for a mortgage payment deferral or to learn what options are available, contact your lender directly — your bank or your mortgage professional.

Emergency financial assistance

If you are facing an unexpected emergency, you can apply for emergency financial assistance. You can get help when a situation is caused by unforeseeable circumstances beyond your control, and it presents a severe health risk, and you cannot access other resources or wait until your next pay-cheque or Income Support benefit cheque.

Learn more about Alberta's emergency financial assistance

Canada Student Loan Interest Suspension

The Government of Canada has suspended the accumulation of interest on Canada Student Loans until March 31, 2023. Log in to your NSLSC account to review the latest information on your repayment terms.

Learn more about Canada Student Loans

All working Albertans can access 3 hours of paid, job-protected leave to get each dose of the vaccine. This leave is for employees who are receiving a COVID-19 vaccination. Employees who are quarantining or self-isolating should read about COVID-19 leave.

Learn more about paid COVID-19 vaccination leave

Practical services for Seniors: delivery of items and personal outreach

The Government of Canada will provide immediate essential services to Canadian seniors impacted by COVID-19. The government will contribute $9 million through United Way Canada for local organizations to support practical services to Canadian seniors. These services could include the delivery of groceries, medications, or other needed items, or personal outreach to assess individuals’ needs and connect them to community supports.

Contact your local organization

Collaborative Online Resources and Education for Seniors

Collaborative Online Resources and Education (CORE) provides a platform for seniors-serving organizations to improve delivery of services for older Albertan and seniors. The hub makes it easier for organizations to share resources and coordinate services, with a focus on key COVID-19 issues, including transportation, food security, social isolation and home supports.

CORE Alberta supports seniors-serving organizations to access training, COVID-19 information and resources, map where the greatest needs are across the province, and help seniors in more remote locations get the support they need. Funding partners include Alberta Health Services, Alberta Blue Cross and the Government of Canada.

Learn more about CORE

New Horizons for Seniors Program

The Government of Canada is expanding the New Horizons for Seniors Program with an additional investment of $20 million to support organizations that offer community-based projects that reduce isolation, improve the quality of life of seniors, and help them maintain a social support network. For all organizations who received funding under the 2019-2020 New Horizons for Seniors Program community-based stream, funding can be used to provide immediate and essential services to seniors impacted by COVID-19.

Learn more about New Horizons for Seniors

Find financial help during COVID-19

Answer a few simple questions to get a list of benefits and supports tailored to you. Here, you’ll be asked 7 to 10 questions, one at a time, and then shown a list of benefits that may help in your situation. It will also have links for more information. Please answer the questions as an individual, not a household.

Find the support you need

As a small business owner, you may be facing immediate challenges in light of the actions taken by our government to further prevent the spread of COVID-19 as we continue to move forward with our relaunch strategy in Alberta. Business Link has gathered current information and resources available to you as you work through the implications this has on you and your business.

Business Link will continue to update this page with new information and additional resources as they become available.

Learn about the resources available for businesses affected by COVID-19

Business Link is supported by the Government of Canada and the Alberta Government.

• Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
• Extending the Work-Sharing Program

• Alberta Credit Unions offer relief solution
• Business Credit Availability Program for loan guarantee for SMEs
• Business Credit Availability Program for co-lending for SMEs
• Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS)
• Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP)
• Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
• Co-Lending Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
• Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund
• Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF)

• Answer a few questions to get a personalized list of support