Several pediatricians in Alberta are suggesting that incorporating childhood immunizations into pediatric hospitals could help address the declining vaccination rates in the province.
However, the Alberta government has rejected this proposal, citing the existing strain on children’s hospitals and outlining alternative measures to enhance accessibility.
Dr. Sam Wong, leading the pediatrics section at the Alberta Medical Association, has been advocating for this initiative for some time.
He emphasized the urgency to enhance vaccination delivery methods following Canada’s loss of its measles-free status as declared by the Pan American Health Organization.
Alberta has witnessed a significant proportion, about 38%, of the country’s measles cases, primarily affecting areas with low childhood immunization rates.
Dr. Wong expressed concerns about potential outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like pertussis and the associated risks of increased infections, hospitalizations, and fatalities.
He highlighted the missed opportunities in hospitals where routine vaccines are only available once a week, limiting accessibility for patients who may not be present during those times.
Dr. Wong proposed expanding immunization availability to a 24/7 schedule or even less frequent intervals to make it more convenient for families.
Despite concerns about decreasing vaccination rates in Alberta, the provincial data reveals suboptimal coverage for essential vaccines like measles, pertussis, and polio.
The government clarified its stance, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to enhance immunization accessibility through community settings rather than adding pediatric hospitals as vaccination points due to their current workload and vulnerable patient population.
The Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services underscored the importance of keeping immunizations up to date and highlighted the challenges associated with vaccine storage and administration in hospital settings.
Dr. Sidd Thakore from Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary lamented the delays in vaccination procedures for admitted patients, stressing the impact on treatment schedules and resource utilization within hospitals.
He shared a recent incident where treatment initiation had to be postponed due to vaccination requirements, underscoring the need for streamlined vaccination processes in hospital settings.
Dr. Wong also highlighted the inefficiencies in arranging urgent vaccinations for exposed patients within hospitals, emphasizing the need for smoother coordination between healthcare providers and public health agencies.
While no active measles cases were reported as of the latest update, the ministry continues to promote vaccination and remains vigilant against potential outbreaks.
Efforts are ongoing to maintain low infection rates and eventually declare an end to the measles outbreak in the province.
