Alexis Nakota Sioux Chief Tony Alexis is criticizing the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in Alberta.
In November 2020, The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) released preliminary guidance on the key populations for early COVID-19 vaccinations, “for the efficient, effective, and equitable allocation of COVID-19 vaccine(s).”
The NACI guidance came because of the limited supply of the vaccines which necessitates that there be “prioritization of immunization in some populations earlier than others.”
The key populations in Stage 1 of the national vaccine rollout, which were identified by the NACI, are as follows:
Residents and staff of congregate living settings that provide care for seniors.
Adults 70 years of age and older, beginning with adults 80 years of age and older, then decreasing the age limit by five-year increments to age 70 years as supply becomes available.
Health care workers (including all those who work in health-care settings and personal support workers whose work involves direct contact with patients).
And adults in Indigenous communities where infection can have disproportionate consequences.
On Jan. 19, Chief of Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Tony Alexis, condemned the Alberta government for its handling and distribution of its COVID vaccines.
