TL;DR – Quick Answer
Alberta provides free vaccines for children (DTaP, MMR, HPV), adults (Tdap boosters, annual flu shots), and seniors (high-dose flu, pneumococcal Prevnar 20, and RSV for 70+). Coverage is nuanced — COVID-19 boosters, Shingrix, and RSV during pregnancy are not free for everyone. Eligibility depends on age and risk factors. Call Imagine Health Pharmacy at (403) 910-3990 for a free consultation — we'll check your coverage on the spot.
You shouldn't have to guess which vaccines are free in Alberta—and you definitely shouldn't skip an important immunization because you're worried about the cost. The good news? Alberta's publicly funded immunization program is one of the most comprehensive in Canada, covering everything from childhood vaccines to shingles protection for seniors.
But here's where it gets confusing: not every vaccine is free for everyone. Some are age-specific. Some depend on your health conditions. And some (like most travel vaccines) aren't covered at all by Alberta Health.
That's why we've created this complete guide—so you know exactly what's covered, who qualifies, and where to get your vaccines in Calgary. Whether you're a parent organizing your child's immunization schedule, an adult wondering about your flu shot, or a senior asking about shingles coverage, we've got you covered.
What Vaccines Are Free in Alberta? The Complete List by Age
Alberta Health covers vaccines based on age, health status, and risk factors. Here's the complete breakdown of what's covered in 2026:
Free Vaccines for Infants & Children (Birth to Age 6)
Alberta's childhood immunization schedule is designed to protect your little ones when they're most vulnerable. All of these vaccines are provided at no cost through public health clinics, pharmacies, and doctor's offices.
| Age | Vaccine | What It Protects Against |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib, PCV13, Rotavirus | Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Hib, pneumococcal disease, rotavirus |
| 4 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib, PCV13, Rotavirus | Same as 2 months (second doses) |
| 6 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib | Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Hib |
| 12 months | MMR, PCV13, Men-C-C | Measles, mumps, rubella, pneumococcal disease, meningococcal C |
| 15 months | Varicella | Chickenpox |
| 18 months | DTaP-IPV-Hib | Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Hib (booster) |
| 4-6 years | DTaP-IPV, MMR-Var | Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella |
💡 Parent Tip: Don't stress about memorizing this schedule! Your healthcare provider will send you reminders, and we keep detailed records at the pharmacy. If you're ever unsure whether your child is up to date, just bring their immunization record to Imagine Health Pharmacy and we'll help you figure it out.
Free Vaccines for School-Age Children (Grades 5-9)
Alberta schools coordinate vaccine programs for older children. These vaccines are typically given through school-based clinics, though you can also receive them at a pharmacy or clinic.
| Grade | Vaccine | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 6 | HPV (Gardasil 9) | 2-dose series protecting against HPV-related cancers (cervical, throat, etc.) |
| Grade 6 | Hepatitis B | 2-dose series (for those not previously vaccinated) |
| Grade 9 | Meningococcal ACYW (Menactra) | Protection against four strains of meningococcal disease |
| Grade 9 | Tdap booster | Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis booster |
⚠️ Important Note: If your child missed the HPV vaccine in Grade 6, it's still free until their 18th birthday. After that, HPV vaccines are not covered by Alberta Health and can cost $200+ per dose. Don't miss this window!
Free Vaccines for Adults (Ages 18-64)
Many adults assume vaccines are just for kids—but that's not true! Alberta covers several important adult immunizations.
| Vaccine | Schedule | Who It's For |
|---|---|---|
| Tdap booster | Every 10 years | Everyone (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis protection) |
| Influenza (flu shot) | Annually (fall/winter) | All Albertans 6 months and older |
| COVID-19 | Booster available, but coverage depends on risk factor and age — not free for everyone | Check with our pharmacist for eligibility |
| MMR (catch-up) | 2 doses if unvaccinated | Adults born after 1970 without proof of immunity |
| Pneumococcal (Prevnar 20) | Varies by risk | High-risk adults with certain health conditions (diabetes, heart disease, immunocompromised, chronic lung disease) |
| Shingrix (shingles) | 2 doses, 2-6 months apart | Immunocompromised adults 18+ and certain high-risk groups (see senior section below for broader coverage) |
Free Vaccines for Seniors (Age 65+)
Alberta significantly expanded vaccine coverage for seniors in recent years. If you're 65 or older, here's what you qualify for:
| Vaccine | Coverage Details | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| High-dose influenza | Free annually for 65+ | Higher-strength flu shot designed for aging immune systems |
| Prevnar 20 (pneumococcal) | Free for 65+ (one-time) | Protects against 20 strains of pneumococcal bacteria (pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections) |
| Shingrix (shingles) | NOT covered by public health — private-pay only regardless of age | 2-dose series. Consult with our pharmacist to discuss cost and payment options. |
| RSV (Arexvy) | Free for anyone 70+ in Alberta | Protects against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which causes serious respiratory infections in seniors |
| COVID-19 | Seasonal boosters available, but coverage is condition-dependent — not all seniors qualify | Check with our pharmacist for eligibility |
💡 How to Get the Shingles Vaccine for Free in Alberta: If you're between 65-69 (or in other eligible groups), the Shingrix vaccine is covered by Alberta Health. You'll need to book an appointment at a pharmacy or clinic—just bring your Alberta Health Care card. If you're outside the covered age range, you can still get it privately for approximately $150-200 per dose (two doses required). Many private insurance plans cover part or all of this cost.
Free Vaccines for Pregnant Women
Pregnancy changes your immune system, making certain vaccines especially important for both you and your baby.
| Vaccine | When to Get It | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tdap | Third trimester (27-32 weeks) | Protects newborns from whooping cough (pertussis) through passed antibodies |
| Influenza | Any trimester during flu season | Pregnant women are at higher risk for flu complications |
Note for new parents: Infants under 8 months may also qualify for Beyfortus (nirsevimab), an RSV monoclonal antibody given during RSV season. This is administered to babies, not during pregnancy. Ask your healthcare provider which RSV prevention option is right for your family.
Eligibility for Publicly Funded Vaccines — Check With Our Pharmacist
Eligibility for publicly funded vaccines changes regularly and depends on individual risk factors. For an accurate eligibility check, call Imagine Health Pharmacy at (403) 910-3990 or walk in for a free consultation — we'll check your coverage on the spot.
Vaccines That Are NOT Free in Alberta (and What They Cost)
Not every vaccine is covered by Alberta Health. Here are the most common vaccines you'll need to pay for out-of-pocket—and what you can expect to pay in 2026:
Travel Vaccines
If you're traveling outside Canada, you'll likely need vaccines
Clinically reviewed by Kelly Zhu, BSc Pharm, APA — Pharmacy Manager. All Imagine Health Pharmacy travel consultations are FREE. Call (403) 910-3990 or walk in.