COVID-19 Information

Calgary COVID-19 Advice

All vaccines that are presently available specifically for COVID-19 are not live vaccines. None of the vaccines in the pipeline can give you the viral disease. Based on knowledge of other vaccines, these vaccines can be used safely in patients with rheumatic musculoskeletal conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis as well as in patients receiving drugs that influence the immune system.

Vaccinations should preferably be given when the disease is in a quiet phase in other words not during a flare of your disease. A vaccination is most effective when the amount of, or level of immune-suppression is low; however, the risk of a flare of the disease is real, and therefore it is advised DO NOT decrease or stop your medication.

In specific cases, particularly for those taking Rituximab; please consult your rheumatologists office to discuss.

There are treatments available to those who contract COVID even while they are not sick enough to be in hospital. If you do get COVID symptoms, please contact 811 to arrange PCR testing as soon as possible so you can ensure you are eligible for these medications. For more details, please contact your Rheumatologists office or nurse case manager. 

In the meantime we encourage our patients to continue wearing masks, maintaining social distancing and washing hands.

Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA) COVID Vaccine Decision Aid

This is a link to a powerpoint style presentation that reviews how and when to consider getting a COVID-19 vaccine

CRA Decision Aid

CRA COVID-19 Vaccine Statement

This is the official position of the CRA and whether or not to vaccinate people with rheumatic diseases. Last updated November 2021.

CRA Vaccine Statement

COVID-19 Public Health Measures

The Government of Alberta has lifted most public health restrictions and mask  mandates. Alberta Health Services has kept the mask mandate in place. Due to the immunocompromised patients seen in a Rheumatology clinic, our staff will continue to mask and practice social distancing. In order to protect our patients to the best of our ability, we expect and encourage our patients to continue to practice mask wearing, hand hygiene and social distancing in clinic as well.