Bookings now open for flu, RSV and COVID-19 shots

Albertans can now make an appointment for their flu and COVID-19 vaccines with the first shots available on Oct. 19.

Albertans can now book their seasonal flu and respiratory virus immunizations.

Opening Monday, the provincial program offers immunizations for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and COVID-19 for eligible Albertans.

The COVID-19 immunization will be available free of charge for eligible Albertans 12 and older at public health clinics and participating community pharmacies, including:

• those at increased risk of severe illness due to underlying health conditions;
• seniors;
• residents of congregant living settings;
• homeless Albertans;
• pregnant Albertans;
• First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Albertans; and
• teachers and health care workers.
• Other Albertans 12 and older who wish to receive the COVID-19 shot will be able to purchase it for $100 through participating pharmacies.

Children aged six months to 11 years old will have to pay too, unless they have an underlying medical condition.

Bookings are available online, through Health Link at 811, or through local pharmacies. First appointments start Oct. 19.

One pharmacist is encouraging Albertans to get vaccinated ahead of the flu season which runs from November to April.

“We find most of these diseases prevailing around in communities and hospitals and long term care settings,” said pharmacist Mauli Patel. “Vaccines don’t eliminate 100 per cent of these viruses, but at least it gives a good extent of protection against those viruses.”

A RSV monoclonal antibody product will also be available to all infants born in hospital from November through April. Families will be offered the antibody shortly after birth before babies leave the hospital.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Evan Kenny