The True Post (Web News) | MUHAMMAD AMANULLAH | October 20, 2026
As flu season approaches, residents across Alberta are beginning to receive seasonal vaccinations to protect themselves against influenza and COVID-19. Health professionals are warning that infections could increase in the coming weeks and are urging people to get vaccinated before the spread of respiratory illnesses accelerates.
In Edmonton, residents are visiting pharmacies to receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Pharmacists recommend getting vaccinated early to help build protection ahead of the peak of the respiratory virus season.
Edmonton resident Darnell Day was among those who received a flu shot on Monday. He said the ongoing referendum in Alberta was bringing large numbers of people out to vote, prompting him to take the opportunity to get vaccinated without having to wait longer.
Day emphasized that vaccination is particularly important for people who receive in-home care with assistance from healthcare workers. He noted that skipping the flu vaccine could increase the risk of becoming seriously ill and potentially requiring hospitalization.
Flu and COVID-19 Cases Reported in Edmonton
Provincial figures cited in the report indicate that more than 134 flu cases have been confirmed in Edmonton since late August, while the number of COVID-19 cases has reached 101.
Health professionals describe these as early figures and warn that infections could increase as the weather gets colder and the region moves further into the winter season.
Samuel Thorsley, a pharmacist and manager at Shoppers City Centre Pharmacy in Edmonton, said pharmacies could experience significant demand early in the flu season. He also pointed to signs of growing pressure on hospitals, suggesting that healthcare facilities could see more patients in the coming weeks.
Thorsley urged residents not to wait until infections begin spreading rapidly before taking precautions. Alongside vaccination, he stressed the importance of maintaining good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of influenza and other seasonal illnesses.
Why Getting Vaccinated Early Matters
Pharmacists are encouraging Albertans to receive their flu shots early in the season to improve their protection during the months when respiratory viruses commonly circulate.
Waiting until cases rise or a family gathering approaches may leave people vulnerable when they begin spending more time with relatives, friends, and other members of the community.
Some people choose to get vaccinated shortly before attending an event or visiting family. However, vaccines do not provide immediate protection, making last-minute vaccination a less effective strategy for preparing for potential exposure.
Health information indicates that the body generally takes about two weeks to develop an immune response following flu or COVID-19 vaccination. Getting vaccinated in advance can therefore help people build protection before periods of increased social interaction and virus transmission.
Flu Shots Covered, COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Applies
In Alberta, flu vaccination is publicly funded and available to residents, while access to publicly funded COVID-19 vaccination is subject to eligibility criteria.
Residents are encouraged to check the latest provincial guidance to determine whether they qualify for a COVID-19 vaccine and to find out which vaccination services are available to them.
Preventive measures may be particularly important for older adults, people receiving ongoing medical care, and individuals who face a higher risk of complications from respiratory infections.
With early flu and COVID-19 cases already being reported in Edmonton, healthcare professionals are urging residents to make vaccination, hand hygiene, and other appropriate precautions part of their seasonal routine.
Taking preventive steps early may help reduce the risk of illness and ease potential pressure on hospitals and other healthcare facilities as Alberta moves deeper into the respiratory virus season.
Note: Case figures and vaccine eligibility information are based on the details provided in the source report. Residents should consult current Alberta Health Services or provincial government guidance for the latest recommendations.
