High demand for private COVID-19 shots sparks supply problems, waitlists for Alberta pharmacies – CBC
Providers, outside medical experts warn trendy procedure comes with possible health risks
Nov 03, 2025
Some Calgary pharmacists say they’ve started waitlists for private COVID-19 vaccines because they can’t get their hands on stock as frustrated Albertans turn to them for the shots.
The provincial government is facing ongoing pushback for charging most Albertans for the vaccine and many people have struggled to book through the public system, which has been described as confusing and complicated.
The government-run program is only offering COVID shots at public health clinics. Some high-risk groups are eligible to get the shot for free, while the vast majority of people must pay $100.
Private supplies are also available through pharmacies. And Pfizer Canada, the company supplying that private stock, said it has placed temporary limits on orders due to higher than expected demand.
