Alberta Offers 3 Million in Vaccine Lottery to Boost Uptake
In an effort to increase sluggish immunization uptake, the Canadian province of Alberta is turning to a substantial motivator: a raffle with a sizable $3 million prize fund. Called the “Open for Summer Lottery,” the program will grant three fortunate inhabitants who have gotten at least a single dose of a COVID-19 vaccine a cool $1 million apiece.
This action comes as Alberta contends with a leveling-off immunization pace amid the proliferation of new strains. Although the province has dispensed millions of doses, the daily figures have plateaued. To qualify for the initial drawing, 70% of eligible Albertans (those aged 12 and above) must be inoculated.
Employing raffles to stimulate vaccinations is not a new idea. Numerous nations, including the United States and China, have enacted comparable schemes to urge individuals to receive their initial shot. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney recognized this, noting that such lotteries have proven successful in other global regions.
Nevertheless, not everyone is persuaded of the efficacy of this strategy. Certain specialists, such as behavioral economist Robert Oxoby from the University of Calgary, contend that monetary inducements have constraints in swaying firmly held convictions and inclinations. Only time will reveal how enticing a million-dollar reward will be for reluctant Albertans.
Dr. Timothy Caulfield, affiliated with the University of Alberta, stresses that receiving a vaccine is not merely an individual decision. He posits that undergoing immunization is a civic duty as it safeguards not solely the recipient, but also their surrounding community.
