The Alberta government will maintain the $100 fee for COVID-19 vaccinations for residents who are not eligible for publicly funded doses, as the province prepares to begin its fall influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization campaign next month.
The province says the fee will continue this year, while a broad range of Albertans will qualify for free COVID-19 vaccinations. The government is also expanding access by waiving the fee for everyone aged 65 and older and once again allowing participating pharmacies to order and administer COVID-19 vaccines.
The fall campaign is scheduled to begin in October, with Albertans able to start booking vaccination appointments on October 5. The program is intended to provide protection against respiratory illnesses before the colder months, when people typically spend more time indoors and respiratory viruses can spread more easily.
Free COVID-19 vaccinations will remain available to people considered at higher risk of severe illness. This includes individuals with certain underlying medical conditions or weakened immune systems, eligible healthcare workers, residents of continuing-care and seniors’ facilities, homebound home-care clients and people experiencing homelessness. Other eligibility categories may also apply under the province’s immunization guidelines.
The government introduced the $100 administrative fee last year after Alberta assumed responsibility for purchasing COVID-19 vaccines from the federal government. Officials said the policy was designed partly to reduce vaccine wastage and improve the province’s ability to match vaccine supplies with demand.
According to provincial figures, approximately 20 per cent of COVID-19 vaccine doses went unused last year, compared with nearly 50 per cent in 2024. However, vaccine uptake also fell by approximately 40 per cent following the introduction of the fee.
The decision to retain the charge has drawn criticism from people who argue that cost could discourage residents from receiving updated protection. Public-health advocates have raised concerns that lower vaccination rates could leave some communities more vulnerable, particularly during the fall and winter respiratory-virus season.
The government maintains that the revised program will improve access for priority groups while reducing waste. It says providing vaccines through pharmacies will make immunization more convenient for eligible Albertans and allow residents to receive protection closer to home.
Influenza vaccines will be available as part of the seasonal campaign, while RSV protection will be offered to eligible groups based on provincial and medical guidelines. Health officials continue to encourage older adults, people with underlying health conditions, healthcare workers and others at increased risk to arrange their vaccinations early.
Albertans are advised to confirm their eligibility, review available appointment options and consult a healthcare provider if they have questions about which vaccines they should receive.