Flu season is almost here, and Alberta’s 2026-27 respiratory virus immunization campaign is ready to go. Starting Monday, October 19, 2026, free influenza vaccines are available to Albertans at participating community pharmacies, including Chaparral Compounding Pharmacy in southeast Calgary. If you are looking for a flu shot in Calgary, this guide covers the key dates, who is eligible, what it costs, and how to book with our team.
Key dates for the 2026-27 flu shot season in Alberta
- October 1, 2026: Eligibility for the free adult RSV vaccine expands to more high-risk adults aged 18 to 69.
- October 5, 2026: Booking opened for fall influenza and COVID-19 immunizations.
- October 19, 2026: The provincially funded fall influenza program begins at community pharmacies, and provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines become available to eligible Albertans.
Flu shots are offered throughout the fall and winter, but getting yours early matters. According to MyHealth.Alberta.ca, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build protection.
Who should get the flu shot?
The influenza vaccine is free for every Albertan 6 months of age and older. Alberta health officials recommend it every year for everyone in that age group, and it is especially important for people at higher risk of serious illness, including:
- Adults 65 years of age and older
- Children under 5 years of age
- Pregnant people
- People with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
- Residents of continuing care and other care facilities
- First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people
- Health care workers and caregivers, who help protect the vulnerable people around them
Why you need a flu shot every year
Influenza viruses change from season to season, so a new vaccine is made each year to match the strains most likely to circulate. Protection from last year’s shot also fades over time. The flu vaccine used in Alberta is an inactivated (killed) vaccine, and this season’s products protect against three strains of influenza.
For older adults, the provincial program includes an adjuvanted vaccine that contains an added ingredient to help the aging immune system build a stronger response. Our pharmacists can tell you which product is right for you.
Flu shots for children
- Children 5 years and older can get their free flu shot at a community pharmacy like ours.
- Children 6 months to 4 years must be immunized at a public health or community health centre. Pharmacists in Alberta cannot give provincially funded vaccines to children under 5. Parents can book by calling Health Link at 811 or by contacting their local public health centre.
- Children under 9 who are getting the flu vaccine for the first time need two doses, at least 4 weeks apart.
COVID-19 vaccines in fall 2026: who is eligible and what it costs
Provincially funded COVID-19 vaccines are available starting October 19, 2026, for:
- All Albertans aged 65 and older
- People aged 6 months and older who live in long-term care or other congregate living settings, have eligible underlying medical conditions (including immunocompromising conditions), are pregnant, are experiencing homelessness, are First Nations, Inuit, or Metis, are eligible health care workers or care providers, or are teachers eligible under the Back to School Act
Pharmacies give COVID-19 vaccines to people 12 years and older. Albertans 12 and older who are not in an eligible group can purchase a COVID-19 vaccine at participating community pharmacies (reported at $100). For most people, a COVID-19 dose can be booked once at least three months have passed since the last dose.
Good to know: Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can safely be given at the same appointment, which saves you a second trip.
Free RSV vaccine for eligible adults
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can be serious for older adults. Alberta’s publicly funded adult RSV vaccine is available year-round, and only one lifetime dose is currently needed. Eligible adults include:
- Adults 70 and older living in the community
- Adults 60 and older in continuing care or seniors supportive living
- First Nations, Metis, and Inuit adults 60 and older
- As of October 1, 2026, high-risk adults aged 18 to 69, including people who have had a lung or stem cell transplant, are receiving dialysis, or are on home or chronic oxygen therapy
Eligible adults can book their RSV vaccine at a community pharmacy. Ask us whether you qualify.
Is the flu shot safe? Common side effects
The flu vaccine is safe and well studied. Side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days. They can include:
- Soreness, redness, or swelling where the needle went in
- Headache, tiredness, or body aches
- Fever or chills
Serious reactions are rare. As a precaution, you will be asked to wait about 15 minutes after your shot. A few more points from Alberta health authorities:
- Egg allergy? People with egg allergies can safely get the flu vaccine. Just let your pharmacist know about any allergies.
- Feeling a bit unwell? A mild illness such as a cold does not stop you from being vaccinated, but it is best to stay home until you feel better.
- Check with your pharmacist first if you have had a severe reaction to a previous flu vaccine or are allergic to any part of the vaccine.
Get your flu shot at Chaparral Compounding Pharmacy in Calgary
Our pharmacists are ready to help you and your family stay protected this season. At Chaparral Compounding Pharmacy, you can get:
- Free flu shots for everyone 5 years and older
- COVID-19 vaccines for eligible Albertans 12 and older
- Adult RSV vaccines for eligible patients
- Friendly advice on which vaccines are right for you, plus help with medication reviews and your other health needs
Book your appointment: Call us at 403-475-5544, book online, or visit us at 210 – 10 Chaparral Drive SE, Calgary. We are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. We proudly serve Chaparral, Walden, Legacy, Silverado, Sundance, Midnapore, Shawnessy, and nearby southeast and southwest Calgary communities.
Simple habits to stay healthy this flu season
- Stay home when you are sick
- Wash or sanitize your hands often
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly
Not sure if you need to see a doctor? Call Health Link at 811 for 24/7 health advice. Not every respiratory illness needs an emergency room visit, but always seek emergency care for severe symptoms such as trouble breathing.
Frequently asked questions
When does the 2026 flu shot campaign start in Alberta?
The provincially funded fall influenza program begins on October 19, 2026. Booking opened on October 5, 2026.
Is the flu shot free in Alberta?
Yes. The influenza vaccine is free for all Albertans aged 6 months and older.
Can I get my flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?
Yes. Both vaccines can be given at the same appointment.
Can my 3-year-old get a flu shot at a pharmacy?
No. Children 6 months to 4 years get their free flu vaccine at public health or community health centres. Call 811 to book. Children 5 and older can be immunized at our pharmacy.
Where can I get a flu shot in southeast Calgary?
Chaparral Compounding Pharmacy at 210 – 10 Chaparral Drive SE offers free flu shots for everyone 5 and older. Call 403-475-5544 to book.
Sources: Government of Alberta: Respiratory virus season, MyHealth.Alberta.ca: Influenza vaccine, Alberta College of Pharmacy, and Alberta Blue Cross Pharmacy Benefact 1338. This article is for general information only. Speak with your pharmacist or doctor about your personal health needs.
Cover photo by CDC on Unsplash.
