Alberta’s flu season off to an early start
Posted October 14, 2026 3:17 pm.
One Albertan has already died from influenza as the province records more than 400 cases before flu vaccines become widely available, raising concerns about an early start to the season.
According to provincial data, Alberta has recorded 411 flu cases so far this season, along with nearly 50 hospitalizations and one death. The Calgary zone has been hit hardest, recording the highest number of cases in the province so far this season.
“It’s early, not that unusual, but unfortunate in terms of, you’d like to have people vaccinated before the epidemic starts,” said Dr. Dan Gregson, an infectious diseases physician and professor emeritus at the University of Calgary.
Albertans will be able to receive their flu shots beginning Oct. 19, with pharmacies across the province preparing for demand. PrimeCare Pharmacy on 17th Avenue in Calgary received its allotment of vaccines this week.
“We have our needles already supplied,” said Schyenne Ly, pharmacy manager at PrimeCare Pharmacy. “It’s about protecting the seniors in your community, your family, your children, vulnerable members in the community.”
Health experts are encouraging residents to book appointments as soon as vaccines become available, noting that this year’s vaccine appears well matched to the dominant strain circulating in Alberta.
“Book your vaccine as early as you can get it,” Gregson said. “If you have to do something, you’re not going to be able to do it if you’re sick. If you have to work you’re going to have to miss work, if you’re competing in sports you’re going to have to miss the sporting event, if you’re going to school, you’re going to miss some school time.”
Among Albertans planning to get vaccinated is one resident who cited age-related concerns.
“We’re both getting into advanced years and we know we’re more susceptible to complications from the flu,” the resident said.
Others remain less eager to get the shot.
“I never get the flu,” another Albertan said. “I think for some people it is very important because they do have weak immune systems and they should probably do it.”
CityNews reached out to Alberta’s Office of Primary and Preventive Health Services for comment on the province’s flu numbers but did not receive a response before deadline.
