Infectious disease experts in Alberta are urging the provincial government to fully embrace the federal COVID-19 vaccine guidelines for their upcoming immunization program. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has recently issued recommendations for the fall and winter seasons.
NACI strongly advises COVID-19 vaccinations for high-risk populations, such as individuals over 65, residents of care homes, those with specific medical conditions, pregnant women, healthcare workers, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and members of racialized groups. Additionally, the committee suggests that provinces may consider offering vaccinations to all individuals aged six months and above as a secondary recommendation.
According to the guidelines, individuals can choose to receive the vaccine based on their personal COVID-19 risk assessment or preference. Last year, the Alberta government faced criticism for charging many individuals $100 for the COVID-19 vaccine, a policy also implemented by Quebec.
While the province provided free vaccinations to certain high-risk groups, including individuals with specific health conditions, healthcare workers, seniors in care facilities, and recipients of the Alberta Seniors Benefit, some high-risk groups identified by NACI were excluded from the eligibility criteria. For instance, all Albertans aged 65 and older were not offered the vaccine for free.
Dr. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious diseases specialist at the University of Alberta Hospital, highlighted the confusion surrounding eligibility criteria, leading to a significant number of individuals remaining unvaccinated for an extended period. She emphasized the need for clearer guidelines from the province ahead of the fall vaccine rollout, advocating for free vaccinations for all Albertans aged 65 and older.
Provincial data indicates that nearly eight percent of Albertans received a COVID-19 vaccine dose during the 2025-26 season. Dr. Saxinger and other experts emphasize the importance of free and easily accessible vaccines, as complex processes and costs may deter individuals from getting vaccinated, even when recommended.
The Alberta government has not yet disclosed its plans for the fall immunization campaign. Multiple experts have raised concerns regarding the alignment of the province’s approach with NACI’s recommendations. They underlined the significance of making vaccines available as a personal health choice, particularly for individuals working in crowded indoor settings like teachers.
Craig Jenne, a professor at the University of Calgary, highlighted that beyond severe outcomes, COVID-19 can lead to debilitating infections and long-term complications. NACI’s guidance stresses the importance of offering vaccines to individuals who wish to be protected, even if they do not have underlying health risks.
Overall, experts emphasize the necessity of facilitating easy access to vaccines to promote widespread immunization and combat the ongoing threat of COVID-19.
