Jumping Through Hoops: Vaccine Frustrations in Calgary

Calgarians are hitting roadblocks in their efforts to secure COVID-19 and influenza vaccines, as Alberta's updated booking system poses significant hurdles. With Phase 2 appointments for the broader public opening October 20, 2025, many residents are navigating a confusing labyrinth of options.

For those aged five and older seeking only an influenza vaccine, community pharmacies remain a primary option, often accepting walk-ins. However, COVID-19 vaccines for most Albertans now come with a $100 administrative fee and are exclusively available through public health clinics, unlike in many other provinces where they remain free. This change, coupled with a decrease in the province's vaccine order, impacts accessibility for many, particularly families.

Booking COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 5 to 11 years typically requires a call to the 811 Health Link hotline. While children aged six months to four years can book online via Connect Care or by calling 811, an Edmonton family recently highlighted frustrating system glitches that incorrectly allowed online bookings for older children before being fixed, leading to denied appointments. Health Link 811 has also reported being overwhelmed by call volumes.

These multiple, often disjointed, booking processes create considerable frustration, especially for parents balancing busy schedules and multiple children's needs. Against a backdrop of rising respiratory illness cases, including nearly 300 COVID-19 cases in the Calgary zone this year, Calgarians are pushing through these challenges, demonstrating the city's tenacious spirit to protect public health.