Starting April 7, eligible Albertans can receive an additional COVID-19 immunization at no cost through participating local pharmacies and Primary Care Alberta public health clinics.
COVID-19 circulates year-round and can lead to serious illness, particularly for older adults and those with underlying health conditions, which is why some individuals may benefit from receiving two immunizations per year to support stronger and longer-lasting protection.
In line with recommendations from Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), the following groups are eligible to receive an additional COVID-19 immunization at no cost due to an increased risk of severe outcomes:
- Adults 80 years of age and older.
- Adult residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings for seniors.
- Individuals six months of age and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised due to an underlying condition or treatment.
- Adults 65 to 79 years of age with underlying medical conditions that place them at higher risk of severe COVID-19.
A minimum interval of at least three months between COVID-19 immunizations is recommended.
Appointments for eligible children under 12 and their family members can be booked through Primary Care Alberta public health clinics online or by calling Health Link at 811. Eligible Albertans aged 12 and older can book through their local pharmacy, with some locations also offering walk-in appointments. Those living in First Nation communities can access the COVID-19 vaccine at their local public health clinic.
All Albertans who are not eligible for a provincially funded dose can contact a participating community pharmacy to purchase one, where available.
Albertans are encouraged to speak with their primary care provider to determine the best immunization plan for their needs.