Albertans can now book seasonal immunizations against influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 through a provincial program that opened Monday. First appointments are scheduled for Oct. 19, ahead of a flu season that runs from November to April.

Eligible Albertans aged 12 and older can receive the COVID-19 shot free at public health clinics and participating community pharmacies. Children aged six months to 11 years will have to pay, unless they have an underlying medical condition. Bookings are available online, through Health Link at 811 or at local pharmacies.

Pharmacist Mauli Patel urged people to get vaccinated before flu season. “We find most of these diseases prevailing around in communities and hospitals and long term care settings,” Patel said. “Vaccines don’t eliminate 100 per cent of these viruses, but at least it gives a good extent of protection against those viruses.”

An RSV monoclonal antibody product will be offered to all infants born in hospital from November through April. Families will be offered the antibody shortly after birth, before babies leave hospital. The report included files from CTV News Edmonton’s Evan Kenny.

Based on reporting by CTV News Edmonton.