Kickoff marks a proactive season for vaccines across Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Fall Immunization Program officially began on Tuesday, with health-care professionals, including Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab, rolling up their sleeves to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines. The campaign’s slogan, Share tradition, not the flu, underscored the province’s emphasis on protecting families and communities as respiratory illnesses typically rise in the autumn months.
Who is eligible and where to get vaccinated
All Saskatchewan residents aged six months and older are eligible for the free vaccines. The program offers both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, and people can choose to receive one or both at a single appointment. For younger children—six months to four years—immunizations must be administered at SHA influenza and COVID-19 clinics, public health offices, or by a physician or nurse practitioner. Availability extends to SHA influenza and COVID-19 clinics, select physicians and nurse practitioner offices, and participating pharmacies. Those seeking vaccination are encouraged to call ahead to confirm availability.
Public health guidance on timing and risk
Shahab noted that COVID-19 cases in Saskatchewan are currently moderate, with influenza and RSV levels relatively low but expected to rise as the season progresses. He stressed the importance of getting vaccinated before respiratory viruses transmit more widely, noting that hospitalizations tend to increase during the fall and winter months. The Health Authority recommends booking appointments during the first two to three weeks of clinic openings to optimize protection ahead of peak season.
How to book and accessibility options
Appointments can be booked through the SHA online booking system or by calling 1-833-727-5829, Monday to Friday. Walk-in clinic locations are listed online, and the SHA provides resources to help people navigate vaccination options. In addition to standalone influenza or COVID-19 vaccines, some clinics offer both vaccines in a single visit, or attendees can schedule them separately based on personal preference.
High-risk groups urged to act promptly
The Saskatchewan Health Authority highlights that seniors, people with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems, children under five, and pregnant women face higher risks of complications from respiratory illnesses. These groups are strongly encouraged to obtain vaccines as soon as possible to reduce the likelihood of severe illness or hospitalization.
Indigenous communities: expanding access and reconciliation in action
Indigenous health-care professionals participated in the rollout, with public health nurse Pauline “Sunshine” Dreaver of the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority noting strong accessibility and coordinated transport for those in remote communities. The collaboration between Indigenous health teams and the SHA aims to ensure vaccines reach communities where access can be challenging, aligning health care delivery with reconciliation goals.
Voices from the frontlines
Dr. Ibrahim Khan, Regional Medical Health Officer with Indigenous Services Canada, emphasized that vaccines protect not only individuals but families and communities. He highlighted risks for Indigenous populations living in overcrowded housing and with chronic conditions, where flu-related complications can lead to hospitalization. Community leaders urged families to come out together and participate in vaccination efforts, echoing the campaign’s guiding message: Share tradition, not the flu.
State of play: early uptake signals
As of Tuesday morning, immunization outreach teams reported 11,515 bookings across Saskatchewan. LeeAnn Palazzo, an immunization outreach coordinator with the SHA, indicated that the data covers bookings for both vaccines or for one, with a higher combined demand likely reflected as the campaign progresses. The early turnout demonstrates community commitment to safeguarding health during a season when respiratory illnesses are most prevalent.
Looking ahead
Public health officials anticipate a continued rise in vaccine uptake as more clinics open and outreach efforts expand. The shared goal is to reduce transmission, protect vulnerable populations, and minimize hospital strain during peak respiratory illness activity. Residents are encouraged to check clinic availability, book early, and participate in this seasonal immunization drive that aims to strengthen Saskatchewan’s collective resilience.
