Table of contents

Book your free shot. It's safe and easy.

COVID-19 vaccines help prevent you from getting infected and protect you from getting severely sick if you do get it. All vaccines are safe, effective and save lives.

Everyone born in 2009 or before (turning 12+) can get their first and second doses now. Third doses are available to some people most at risk of severe illness.

NEW: AHS clinics and pharmacies now use the same centralized online booking system. You can also book your shot by calling 811, visiting a walk-in clinic, or contacting a doctor's office.

Book with AHS or pharmacy Find a walk-in Find a doctor's office

Progress to date

As of September 19:

  • 5,816,752 doses administered
  • 81% of Albertans 12+ with at least 1 dose
  • 72.3% of Albertans 12+ fully vaccinated
  • 1,512 adverse events following immunization (learn about vaccine safety)

See full stats and map

Vaccine incentives

  • $100 Debit Card

    Get vaccinated to get a $100 debit card!

    • Who's eligible: Albertans 18 or older who got their first or second dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine between September 3 and October 14, 2021.
    • How to register: After vaccination, register online at alberta.ca/VaccineDebitCard by October 14 at 11:59 pm.
    • How to claim: $100 debit cards will be delivered to you. Everyone who is registered and has a valid vaccination will receive a debit card.
  • Alberta's Vaccine Lottery

    Get vaccinated for your shot to win $1 million!

    • Who's eligible: Alberta residents 18 and older who have had 2 doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine.
    • How to register: Enter online at alberta.ca/Lottery by September 23 at 11:59 pm.
    • How to claim: Winner will be contacted by September 30, 2021.
  • Outdoor Adventure Vaccine Lottery

    Get vaccinated for a chance to win premiere hunting, fishing or camping experiences!

    • Who's eligible: Alberta residents 18 and older with 2 doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine.
    • How to register: The alberta.ca/OutdoorLottery closed September 9 at 11:59 pm.
    • How to claim: Verified winners will be contacted with instructions on how to claim their prize.

Vaccine records

Starting September 19, card-sized vaccine records will be available at alberta.ca/CovidRecords. Read the information below to learn more.

  • Accessing your vaccine records

    Online records

    • Albertans 12 and older can get a card-sized vaccine record through the new express system at alberta.ca/CovidRecords.
      • It's fast and easy – no account required. Enter your personal healthcare number, birthdate, and month and year of vaccination.
      • Download your card and print out or save on your phone.
      • If you were vaccinated recently, it may take up to 2 weeks for your records to be available online.
    • Participating Registry Agents can also print out your vaccine card from alberta.ca/CovidRecords at no cost starting September 21.
    • MyHealth Records is still available for Albertans 14 and over who wish to use a verified account to view their health records, including lab tests and medications.

    Records from vaccination appointment

    • You will receive a paper record at your vaccination appointment.
    • If you lost it or require another paper copy, request a copy through your vaccination provider:
      • Pharmacy or physician's office – contact the location you received your vaccination.
      • AHS Clinic – call 811 to request a copy be mailed to you.
  • Showing proof of vaccination

    Albertans may wish to prove vaccination status if accessing businesses or travelling. While COVID-19 vaccines are strongly encouraged, they are not mandatory under Alberta law.

    Businesses and events

    • Some businesses, entities and organizers may require you to provide proof of vaccination in order to access their facilities, services or events.
    • Check with the business or event organizer to confirm requirements.
    • Albertans can show a paper or digital copy of their vaccine record. Plan ahead for busy events by saving a copy on your phone or printing it out.

    International travel

    • Some foreign countries may require Canadian travellers to provide proof of vaccination to visit. Check the policies of individual countries, state/local governments, cruise lines and events before travelling. Learn more about travelling abroad during COVID.
    • Albertans have been successfully travelling by using their paper vaccine record. Going forward they can continue using their paper copy, or use a digital copy from alberta.ca/CovidRecords.
    • The federal government is working with provinces and territories to develop an official federal vaccine credential for international travel. A launch date has not been announced.

    Inter-provincial travel

    • Some provinces may require travellers from Alberta to provide proof of vaccination to visit or access certain business or services. Check before you go.
    • Albertans can show a paper or digital copy of their vaccine record along with their government-issued ID (driver's licence).
    • Alberta does not require proof of vaccination from visitors arriving from other parts of Canada.
  • Updating your vaccine records
    • If you or your children under 18 were partially or fully vaccinated outside of Alberta, you can update your health records by submitting your out-of-province/country immunization records online through ahs.ca/vaccineregistry.
    • Submitted records will be reviewed by AHS. Verified information will be available on alberta.ca/CovidRecords and your MyHealth Records account in up to 2 weeks.
  • Vaccine credentials and privacy

    Vaccine credentials

    • Official vaccine records are available on the new express system at alberta.ca/CovidRecords or on your verified MyHealth Records account.
    • The federal government has stated its intent to work with all provinces and territories to develop an official federal vaccination credential to support international travel. A launch date has not been announced.

    Protecting your privacy

    • Individual Albertans will have to voluntarily sign-up with the federal government if you wish to participate in the federal program when it launches. Your vaccination status will not be shared with the federal government – or any other entity – without your consent.

Second doses and additional shots

Every Albertan should get their second dose when they're eligible. A single dose of COVID-19 vaccine offers at least 80% protection against severe outcomes, including hospitalization and death. However, second doses are needed to get the best and most long-lasting protection.

  • Second dose for mRNA (Pfizer/Moderna) recipients

    If you got an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) for your first dose, you should get an mRNA vaccine for your second dose to become fully vaccinated, but it doesn't need to be the same brand. Both Pfizer and Moderna are considered interchangeable so book the first appointment available.

    For more on mRNA vaccines, including information on safety, side effects and effectiveness of second doses, see second dose for mRNA recipients (PDF, 54 KB).

    When to book

    • Book your second dose 4 weeks after your first dose.

    How to book

    Where possible, AHS and participating pharmacies who administered your first dose will contact you when you are eligible for your second dose. You do not need to wait to be contacted to book an appointment once you are eligible and you can choose where you go to get your second dose.

    Safety of second doses

    Rare cases of heart inflammation (known as myocarditis and pericarditis) following COVID-19 vaccination have been reported in Canada and internationally.  International data suggests this may occur more frequently after receiving a second dose of an mRNA vaccine, but cases remain extremely rare.

    For more information, see Q&A: Myocarditis and/or peridcarditis following COVID-19 vaccines (PDF, 344 KB).

  • Second dose for AstraZeneca recipients

    If you got AstraZeneca for your first dose, you can choose either the AstraZeneca vaccine or an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer/Moderna) for your second dose.

    Both options will provide additional protection and count as completing your immunization in Canada. International jurisdictions may have different standards for a complete immunization series.

    Effectiveness and safety information is provided below to help you make the decision that best meets your needs.

    When to book

    • Book your second dose 8 weeks after your first dose of AstraZeneca

    How to book

    Effectiveness after second dose

    • AstraZeneca
      • In clinical trials, AstraZeneca prevented 60% to 80% of sickness from COVID-19 and was even more effective in preventing severe illness and death, starting 2 weeks after the second dose.
    • mRNA (Pfizer/Moderna)
      • Most studies looking at giving an mRNA vaccine after a first dose of AstraZeneca are not finished yet.
      • An early study from Spain showed greatly improved immune response, compared with no second dose, when Pfizer vaccine was given 8 or more weeks after a dose of AstraZeneca vaccine.
      • It is possible that using different vaccines might stimulate the immune system in different ways and provide a stronger immune response, but studies are still ongoing.

    Safety of second doses

    • AstraZeneca
      • A very rare but serious condition of blood clots combined with low levels of blood platelets (known as VITT) has been reported.
      • In Canada, there has been one case reported for every 55,000 first doses.
      • The rate of blood clot cases after a second dose is not clear yet, but data from the United Kingdom currently suggests it is much rarer than after first doses – roughly 1 case per 600,000 doses were reported after 9 million second doses given.
    • mRNA (Pfizer/Moderna)
      • No instances of VITT or other safety signals have been reported from mRNA vaccines.

    Possible side effects after second dose

    • AstraZeneca
      • Most reactions, like headache and tiredness, are rarer and milder than the first dose.
    • mRNA (Pfizer/Moderna)
      • A study from the United Kingdom showed that people who got the Pfizer vaccine 4 weeks after a dose of AstraZeneca vaccine had more general reactions like fever and aches than those who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for their second dose.
      • In a study from Spain where people had the Pfizer vaccine 8 weeks after a dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine, side effects were mild and went away on their own.

    Learn more: Second dose for AstraZeneca recipients (PDF, 51 KB)

  • Second dose for immunocompromised

    Immunization for immunocompromised individuals should occur at a time when the individual is most likely to mount an immune response. Consult your physician for the best time based on your treatment plan.

    When to book (general guidance)

    • Pfizer or Moderna – 21 to 28 days after your first dose
    • AstraZeneca – 8 weeks after your first dose is recommended, but as early as 28 days after your first dose if that is the most appropriate timing
  • Second dose for those vaccinated outside Alberta
    • Anyone who was partially vaccinated outside Alberta can get a second dose here when they are eligible.
    • Bring the original written record of your first dose with you to the appointment.
    • Call Health Link at 811 if you have any further questions.
  • Third dose for immunocompromised and seniors in supportive living

    Third doses are only currently recommended for eligible groups with the highest risk of severe outcomes: some immunocompromised people and residents of seniors' supportive living.

    Alberta is not offering additional doses to the general seniors population at this time. Two doses still provides excellent protection for most people. As new data emerges, additional doses may be recommended for other groups in the future.

    Immunocompromised Albertans 12 and older

    • Eligible immunocompromised conditions include:
      • transplant recipients, including solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplants
      • chronic kidney disease receiving regular dialysis
      • receiving active cancer treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapies), excluding those receiving only hormonal therapy, radiation therapy or surgery
      • taking certain medications for autoimmune diseases including rituximab, ocrelizumab and ofatumumab
    • When to book: Must wait at least 8 weeks after second dose.
    • How to book: Call 811, book online with AHS or a participating pharmacy, or contact a physicians’ office

    Residents of seniors’ supportive living

    • Alberta Health Services will coordinate additional COVID-19 doses for residents of seniors’ supportive living with other immunization partners as needed at least 5 months after their second dose.
    • Eligible residents of supportive living facilities will receive their third doses at their facilities.
  • Additional doses for travellers
    • Travellers to jurisdictions that don't recognize Covishield/AstraZeneca or mixed series doses can get additional dose(s) of vaccine.
    • When to book: Must wait at least 4 weeks after second dose.
    • How to book: Call 811, book online with AHS or a participating pharmacy, or contact a physicians’ office.

After your vaccine

  • Rules for fully vaccinated people

    Fully vaccinated Albertans must still follow public health measures as indicated.

    Masks are mandatory in all indoor public settings and workplaces.

  • Isolation and quarantine requirements for vaccinated Albertans

    Fully vaccinated

    • If you are fully-vaccinated* and are exposed to a COVID-19 case:
      • If you have no symptoms, you are not required to quarantine.
      • If you do have symptoms, you must isolate for 10 days and should get tested – your isolation can end early if you test negative.

    Partially vaccinated

    • If you are partially vaccinated** and are exposed to a COVID-19 case:
      • If you have no symptoms, you must quarantine for 10 days and should get tested.
        • Your quarantine can end early if you test negative on day 7 or later.
        • If you test negative before day 7, you must remain in quarantine and need a second negative test on day 7 or later to end quarantine.
      • If you do have symptoms, you must isolate and should get tested.
        • If you test negative before day 7, you must continue to quarantine (10 days total from exposure date).
        • If you test negative on day 7 or later and your symptoms have resolved, your quarantine can end.

    International travellers

    • Quarantine rules have changed for fully and partially vaccinated Canadians returning from travel outside of the country.

    Learn more about isolation and quarantine requirements

    Learn more about COVID-19 travel requirements

    *You are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving both doses in a 2-dose vaccine series, or 1 dose in a 1 dose vaccine series.
    **You are considered partially vaccinated 14 days after receiving the first dose in a 2-dose vaccine series.

  • Travel requirements

    International travel

    • International travel requirements continue to evolve. Check the policies of individual countries, state/local governments, cruise lines and/or venues and events before travelling.
    • Some jurisdictions are only accepting travellers that are fully immunized with vaccines they have authorized.
    • The Government of Canada continues to work with jurisdictions around the world to have all vaccines authorized in Canada, including mixed series, recognized as valid doses.
    • Upon return to Canada, quarantine and testing requirements may be reduced for fully immunized travellers who meet specific conditions.

    United States travel

    • There are currently no immunization restrictions for visitors entering the United States, including for those who received AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD as part of their immunization series.
    • Some private sector events, such as shows and concerts, may have different rules.
    • For more information, visit the CDC website.

    Canada travel

    • Travellers to Canada are required to show proof of full vaccination at the border to be considered for exemption from quarantine and testing requirements.
    • In Canada, individuals that have had 2 doses of an approved vaccine are considered fully vaccinated, even if each dose is a different type. The AstraZeneca and COVISHIELD vaccines are recognized as the same product.
    • For more information and instructions, visit the Government of Canada website.

    Alberta travel

    • Alberta does not require proof of vaccination from visitors arriving from another part of Canada.

Vaccine facts

Busting myths is about being armed with the facts. Get the information you need to stay safe.

Get the facts

Need time off work?

All working Albertans can access 3 hours of paid, job-protected leave to get each dose of the vaccine. Learn more.

Need a ride?

Isolated seniors and those with mobility challenges can get a ride to and from their appointment. Call 211 for help.

Need translated info?

Vaccine info is available in عربي, 中文, हिंदी, 한국어, فارسی, ਪੰਜਾਬੀ, Af-Soomaali, Español, Français, Tagalog, Tiếng Việt, اردو.

Who should get vaccinated

Every Albertan who can get vaccinated, should get vaccinated.

Vaccines make our immune systems stronger by building antibodies to help prevent and fight off diseases. Because COVID-19 is a new virus, no one has previous immunity. It is much safer and more effective to get immunized than it is to get infected.

Get vaccinated

  • Albertans born 2009 or before (turning 12+)
  • Recovered from COVID-19

Consult doctor first

  • If you have questions about the vaccine or your health conditions

Don't get vaccinated

About the vaccines

All approved vaccines are safe, effective and will help prevent serious illness. You're encouraged to review current evidence to make an informed decision about your health.

  • AstraZeneca (COVISHIELD) vaccine

    The AstraZeneca (COVISHIELD) vaccine is proven highly effective in preventing serious illness and death in adults.

    Who should get it

    • Eligible Albertans 18 and older.
      • Albertans 18 and older can access the AstraZeneca vaccine if they have a contraindiction to, or refuse, the mRNA vaccines
      • Second doses of AstraZeneca vaccine are also available to those who received the vaccine as their first dose.

    Who shouldn't get it

    • Not currently recommended for people under 18.

    Effectiveness

    • Reduces infection by 60-80% and was even more effective in preventing severe illness and death.
    • May be less effective preventing spread to others, but evidence is still emerging.

    How it works

    • Viral vector vaccines use a modified harmless virus (vector) to carry the genetic code for the COVID-19 virus spike protein. Once in the cells, the vaccine provides instructions for the cell to make the spike protein, which then cause your immune system to produce antibodies that will protect you against COVID-19.

    Possible side effects

    • Pain at injection site, body chills, feeling tired or feverish are common.
    • Allergic reactions are rare. As with any medication, you should contact your health care provider if you experience any health concerns.
    • Rare instances of blood clots (known as VITT) are under investigation. These are rare and treatable.
      • To date, Alberta has reported 5 cases and 1 death.
      • Based on cases identified to date in Canada, the rate of VITT has been estimated at approximately one case in 55,000 first doses of vaccine.
      • The rate of VITT after a second dose is not clear yet, but data from the United Kingdom currently suggests it is much rarer than after first doses – roughly one case per 600,000 doses were reported.
         
  • Moderna and Pfizer vaccines

    The Moderna and Pfizer BioNTech vaccines are proven highly effective in preventing serious illness and death.

    Who should get it

    Who shouldn't get it

    • Effectiveness in younger people has not yet been established.
    • Consult your doctor if you have questions about your health conditions.

    Effectiveness

    • Prevents severe illness and death by 80-90%.

    How it works

    • Uses mRNA technology to teach cells how to make a protein to trigger an immune response and make antibodies to fight the COVID-19 virus. It does not alter your DNA.

    Possible side effects

    • Pain at injection site, body chills, feeling tired or feverish are common.
    • Allergic reactions are rare.
    • No major safety concerns have been identified.
    • Rare cases of heart inflammation (known as myocarditis and pericarditis) after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine have been reported internationally and in Canada are under investigation. These are cases are rare, treatable, and typically mild.
      • As of July 21, there have been 6 reported cases of myocarditis in Alberta. It is not yet certain that this condition was caused by the COVID-19 vaccine.
      • Cases occur most often in males under 30, after getting the second dose of an mRNA vaccine.
      • Myocarditis and pericarditis are common, and are more likely to occur as a symptom of a viral infection – including COVID-19 – than as a vaccine side effect.
      • Learn more about myocarditis and pericarditis following COVID-19 vaccines (PDF, 444 KB)
  • What's the difference?

    All 3 vaccines help our bodies learn how to protect us against future infection from the virus that causes COVID-19, but use a different mechanism to get the attention of the immune system:

    • AstraZeneca uses a modified harmless virus (vector) to carry the genetic code for the COVID-19 virus spike protein. Once in the cells, the vaccine provides instructions for the cell to make the spike protein, which then cause your immune system to produce antibodies that will protect you against COVID-19.
    • Moderna and Pfizer use a mRNA technology to teach cells how to make a protein to trigger an immune response and make antibodies to fight the real virus. It does not alter your DNA.

    While all 3 vaccines are highly effective, Moderna and Pfizer appear to be slightly more effective than AstraZeneca:

    • Moderna and Pfizer are 80-90% effective in preventing severe illness and death
    • AstraZeneca is about 60-80% effective in reducing infection and is even more effective in preventing severe illness and death. It may be less effective preventing spread to others, but evidence is still emerging.

Vaccine safety

Thanks to worldwide collaboration, COVID-19 vaccines were developed quickly without compromising safety. Every approved vaccine has met Health Canada's strict standards for safety, quality and effectiveness.

Vaccine info

Info for Albertans

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If you have any questions about this collection of personal information, you may contact Director, Alberta.ca at:

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