Saskatchewan‘s Fall COVID-19 Vaccination Programme Anticipated to Begin October 14
Saskatchewan residents will soon have access to updated COVID-19 vaccinations as teh province prepares to launch its fall immunization program. Michael Fougere, CEO of the Pharmacy Association of Saskatchewan, anticipates the program will begin on October 14th.
“You can go to your pharmacist and make a reservation for this any time now,” Fougere stated,clarifying that appointments made in advance will be scheduled for on or after October 14th. The program is slated to run through march 2026, and the COVID-19 vaccine will be provided at no cost to residents.
“We’re pleased the province is fully supporting COVID through the season,” Fougere added, noting that this differs from the approach taken in some other provinces. Alberta, for example, will begin charging $100 for the COVID-19 vaccine to those not considered high-risk as of October 1st.
Dr. Joseph Blondeau, head of clinical microbiology at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, reports a recent, though expected, increase in respiratory illnesses. “This is not atypical,” he said regarding the timing of the immunization rollout, emphasizing the importance of vaccination before the peak of respiratory season.
Dr. Blondeau urged residents to receive both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. He highlighted the ongoing presence and evolution of the virus that causes COVID-19, and the strong evidence demonstrating the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing severe illness and hospitalization. “None of us want to get severely infected and require hospitalization,” he stated.
The provincial government confirmed plans to release full details of the fall immunization program in the coming days. A spokesperson stated in an email to CBC News that the COVID-19 vaccine will remain publicly funded for all Saskatchewan residents with a valid Saskatchewan health card.
