Health article
The Alberta flu shot for 2026–27: what is free, which one, and when
The flu shot is free in Alberta again this season, and it is not one vaccine. Which one you get depends on your age and your health. Here is the short version, checked against Alberta Health's own guidance.
This season at a glance
From MyHealth Alberta's influenza vaccine page, current as of September 28, 2026.
- Anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Alberta, and anyone visiting.
- Everyone 6 months and older.
- Age 5 and older.
- Public health offers it from mid to late October to the end of March.
- One per season.
Which flu shot is which
All three free vaccines are inactivated, meaning killed, and protect against three strains of influenza. The pharmacist will tell you which one is recommended for you.
Standard dose
For most healthy people from 6 months to 64 years.
High dose
Contains more of the inactivated virus, for more protection in people at higher risk of getting very sick. If you have had CAR T-cell therapy, a stem cell transplant, or have had or will have an organ transplant, you need to get the high-dose vaccine at a public health or community health centre rather than a pharmacy.
Adjuvanted dose
Has an added component that helps the body build a stronger response. It is for people 65 and older who do not need the high-dose vaccine.
Nasal spray
Not part of the free programme. It may be available to buy from a pharmacist, so ask whether it suits you and check whether your insurance covers it.
Who it matters most for
Canada's vaccine advisory committee (NACI) recommends it for everyone 6 months and older, and singles these groups out for 2026–27.
People at higher risk of complications
Children 6 to 59 months, adults 65 and older, anyone pregnant, people with chronic health conditions, residents of care homes, and First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
People who could pass it on to them
Health and care workers, people who live with someone at high risk, and anyone who looks after children under 5.
People who keep things running
Those who provide essential community services, and people whose work or hobbies expose them to bird flu. The flu shot does not protect against bird flu, but it lowers the chance of catching both at once.
Three questions people ask at the counter
I am allergic to eggs. You can still have it. Alberta Health is clear that an egg allergy is not a reason to skip the flu shot. An allergy to another part of the vaccine, or a serious reaction to a flu shot before, is worth raising with the pharmacist first.
I have a cold. A mild illness does not rule you out, but Alberta Health's advice is to stay home until you feel better so you do not pass it around the waiting area. Come in once it has cleared.
Can I get my COVID shot or another vaccine at the same time? Yes. The flu shot can be given at the same visit as other vaccines, or any time before or after them.
Common questions
Is the flu shot free in Alberta in 2026?
Yes. For the 2026–27 season it is free for anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Alberta, and for visitors. The nasal spray version is the exception: it is not part of the free programme.
Can my child get the flu shot at a pharmacy?
From age 5, yes. Children under 5 get it through a public health or community health centre. Children under 9 getting their first ever flu shot need two doses, at least 4 weeks apart.
When can I get the flu shot in Alberta?
Alberta Health lists public health availability from mid to late October through the end of March. Call us on 403-930-5806 to check whether this season's vaccine has arrived at the pharmacy.
Which flu shot should I get if I am over 65?
Usually the high-dose or the adjuvanted vaccine. The pharmacist will tell you which one is recommended for you.