STAY CONNECTED: Have the stories that matter most delivered every night to your email inbox. Subscribe to our daily local news wrap.
(The Canadian Press)
By Lisa Johnson, The Canadian Press
Provincial Politics

Alberta to pay for COVID shots for health workers in policy reversal

Aug 19, 2025 | 4:22 PM

Alberta’s government says it will cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccinations for health-care workers in a partial policy reversal.

It comes two months after the government said most Albertans, including health workers, would have to pay for COVID-19 shots this fall.

Public health experts and health-care unions called it irresponsible to force front-line workers to pay for protection in the workplace.

Premier Danielle Smith has said the aim of the new policy is to prevent wastage, after some $135 million was spent on unused doses.

The government hasn’t finalized how much other Albertans will need to pay, but an estimated cost to buy each shot is $110.

The province says those who have compromised immune systems, people on social programs and seniors in congregate settings will be covered.

(The Canadian Press)

by Lisa Johnson, The Canadian Press