COVID-19 vaccines available in Alberta for high-risk groups

As of Monday, COVID-19 vaccines are officially available across Alberta — but access is currently limited to high-risk populations.

Seniors in care facilities, pregnant individuals, those who are immunocompromised, health-care workers, and others deemed high-risk are first in line for the rollout.

Albertans not included in this initial phase will be eligible to book their vaccinations starting Oct. 20, as part of Phase 2.

While COVID-19 vaccines remain free for most Canadians, Alberta has introduced a $100 fee for most residents.

The province says this new pre-order system is designed to reduce waste and improve vaccine planning. However, pre-ordering is not mandatory to receive a vaccine.

Appointments can be booked online; however, users are advised to expect potential delays. Alternatively, residents can call 811 for assistance.

According to Alberta’s respiratory illness dashboard, COVID-19 hospital admissions are on the rise. So far this year, the province has reported 716 cases, including seven deaths. Nearly 300 of those cases have occurred in the Calgary zone.

With flu season approaching, health officials are also urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza. Starting Oct. 20, flu shots will be available at pharmacies for individuals aged five and older, with many locations accepting walk-ins. Experts emphasize that the flu vaccine is effective in reducing the severity of illness and preventing hospitalizations.

To date, Alberta has recorded 52 cases of influenza, with 32 of those in the Calgary zone.