Prevnar 20 · 4.9 stars from 202 Google reviews
Pneumonia vaccine in Calgary
If you're 65 or older, smoke, or have certain long-term health problems, the pneumonia vaccine is worth asking about. Prevnar 20 is one pneumococcal vaccine, it covers 20 types of the bacteria, and most adults need one dose. If you're 65 or older, it's free. Wessam Sakr, the pharmacist who owns Edgemont Family Pharmacy, gives it here in NW Calgary.
Why the pneumonia vaccine matters
MyHealth Alberta puts it plainly: when adults with pneumococcal disease have an infection in their lungs and blood, as many as 1 in 14 could die. The risk may be higher as you get older.
It spreads through coughs, sneezes, kissing and sharing food, and you can pass it on without having symptoms. MyHealth Alberta calls immunization the best way to protect yourself. PNEU-C20, sold as Prevnar 20, is one of the pneumococcal vaccines used for adults.
Who should get the pneumonia vaccine
MyHealth Alberta says your healthcare provider may recommend it if any of these apply to you.
You're 65 or older
Your immune system may not respond as well as you age, so you're at greater risk and could get very sick.
You have certain health problems
Heart, lung, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, HIV, a spleen that was removed or doesn't work well, a weakened immune system, sickle cell disease, a stem cell or organ transplant, a long-term leak of brain and spinal fluid, or a brain or nerve condition that makes it hard to clear saliva and mucus.
You smoke or vape
It's on the list in its own right, whatever your health.
Your home's air is poor
For example, you use a wood-burning stove or live with someone who smokes indoors.
You live in a care facility
Such as a continuing care home.
Your job exposes you to metal fumes
Welders, for example.
Other reasons on the list
You use a cochlear implant, you're an Indigenous person, you have an alcohol or substance use disorder, or you're experiencing houselessness.
One dose, for most adults
- PNEU-C20 (Prevnar 20)
- 1 for most people 25 months and older
- Same visit, before or after most vaccines
- There's a waiting period
Check with the pharmacist first if
Either of these may mean you can't have it, so talk to us before you book.
You have an allergy to any part of the vaccine
Tell us about every allergy you have.
You had a serious or unusual reaction before
To this vaccine, or to one like it.
What the days after feel like
Side effects tend to be mild and go away in a few days. Common ones include a sore, red or swollen arm, feeling tired, trouble sleeping, a headache, a fever, aches, feeling irritable, poor appetite, an upset stomach, or a rash.
You'll wait in the pharmacy for 15 minutes after the needle, in case of a rare allergic reaction. For a sore arm, a cool, wet cloth over the spot helps. If you're not sure what to take for fever or pain, ask us.
If your healthcare provider has told you to call them when you get a fever, because of a weakened immune system, call them even if you think the fever is from the vaccine.
A cold or other mild illness doesn't stop you having it, but it's best to stay home until you feel better so you don't pass it on.
Who gives your vaccine
Wessam Sakr, BScPharm, RPh
Certified Bariatric Educator, Obesity CanadaCertified Diabetes Educator, Diabetes CanadaOver nine years of patient care
Wessam owns the pharmacy and works in it. He's the pharmacist you'll see.
What people say about visits here
Rated 4.9 from 202 Google reviews (November 2026). Reviewers often call Wessam "Sam". These are about visits here in general, not the pneumonia vaccine in particular.
Geoff Stimpson · September 2026
On time, no crowds in waiting room, thorough and careful.
Bailey Bai · April 2026
I had a great experience at this clinic. The staff were very attentive and patient, and they took the time to explain everything clearly. I really felt well cared for. Highly recommend!
Monica Taylor · June 2024
Sam is a very excellent Pharmacist, he takes his time to explain every detail and always make you feel comfortable and welcoming.
Larissa Donnelly · February 2026
They explained everything and treated my son, who is almost 18, but still learning to navigate things like vaccines and medical aspects, with respect and as the patient. I really appreciated that.
How to book
Book online or call
Use the Book button on this page, or phone 403-930-5806.
Bring your list
Your medications, any allergies, and any immunization record you have.
One visit for most adults
Most adults need a single dose. If you're due for other vaccines, ask about having them the same day.
Common questions
Who should get the pneumonia vaccine?
MyHealth Alberta says it may be recommended if you're 65 or older, or if you're younger and have certain health problems, smoke or vape, live in a care facility, or have one of the other risks it lists. Ask us if you're not sure.
How many doses of the pneumonia vaccine do adults need?
Most adults need 1 dose of PNEU-C20.
Is Prevnar 20 the same as the pneumonia vaccine?
Prevnar 20 is the brand name of PNEU-C20, one of the pneumococcal vaccines people call the pneumonia vaccine. It protects against 20 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
How much does the pneumonia vaccine cost?
It's free here if you're 65 or older. If you're younger, it depends on which vaccine you get and your situation. You'll see our price when you book online, or call 403-930-5806 and we'll go through it with you first.
Can I get the pneumonia vaccine with other vaccines?
Usually, yes. MyHealth Alberta says PNEU-C20 can be given at the same time as, before or after most vaccines. Tell us what else you're due for and we'll check.
I had a pneumonia vaccine years ago. Do I need another?
Possibly. There's a waiting period after other pneumococcal vaccines, so tell us which one you had and roughly when, and we'll check.