Vaccines are substances that stimulate the immune system to produce an immune response without causing the actual disease. They contain weakened or inactivated forms of the disease-causing organism or specific components of it. When administered, vaccines prepare the immune system to recognize and fight the disease if you are exposed to it in the future.
Vaccines are extensively tested for safety before they are approved for use. While they can have side effects, they are generally mild, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever. Serious side effects are rare. The benefits of vaccines in preventing diseases far outweigh the risks of potential side effects.
Vaccines are important for individuals of all ages. Some vaccines are specifically recommended for adults, especially those travelling to certain destinations or with specific health conditions. Vaccines help protect the general population from various infectious diseases.
Please note that at this time, while we can assess and prescribe medication for any age, Alberta pharmacists cannot administer vaccines to children 2 years and younger.
Individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses can benefit greatly from vaccines. However, some vaccines may not be suitable for certain medical conditions or medications. It is best to consult a healthcare professional who can assess your situation and provide appropriate recommendations.
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 9 months and older who are travelling to or living in areas where yellow fever is endemic or where it is required for entry. It is essential to check the specific requirements of your destination and consult with a pharmacist.
Certain people may be at higher risk from serious adverse effects from yellow fever vaccination, including people with certain medical conditions, people taking medications that lower their immune system, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people who are older than 60 years of age. In these cases, a discussion with an experienced healthcare provider is required to determine if vaccination should be completed or if a Certificate of Medical Contraindication to Vaccination should be provided.
Please also note that our clinic cannot provide yellow fever vaccines to children who are younger than 1 year old, as Alberta pharmacists are not allowed to administer injections to children less than 2 at this time.
It is recommended to get vaccinated at least 10 days before your trip to allow your body to develop immunity. Some countries may require proof of vaccination at least 10 days prior to entry.
In most cases, a single dose of the yellow fever vaccine provides lifelong immunity. However, in some cases a booster shot may be recommended for adequate protection. It is important to check the specific requirements of your destination, however, a booster shot cannot be legally required.
The yellow fever vaccine is generally safe. Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or headache. Serious side effects are rare but can occur. It is important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional before getting vaccinated.
We have created this particular assessment as a separate service because we understand that you may have consulted with another healthcare provider for your travel needs, but they were not a Designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre. For this, we can provide a specific consultation for your yellow fever vaccine recommendations and requirements as applicable to your itinerary. We can assess, prescribe and administer the yellow fever vaccine (if appropriate), and provide the required documentation for your travels.
Several COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for use worldwide. The choice of which vaccine may depend on factors such as availability, eligibility, and any specific recommendations by health authorities in your region. All approved vaccines are effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalization.
Yes, COVID-19 vaccines have undergone rigorous testing and have been authorized for emergency use based on their safety and efficacy. They have proven to be highly effective in preventing COVID-19 infection, severe illness, and death. The benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks of COVID-19.
Yes, individuals who have had COVID-19 can still benefit from vaccination. The immune response generated by vaccination can provide additional protection against reinfection and potentially offer more robust and longer-lasting immunity.
While COVID-19 vaccines are generally safe for most individuals, there may be specific contraindications or precautions for certain individuals, such as those with severe allergies to vaccine components. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or review specific guidelines to assess your eligibility and safety for vaccination.
The vaccines required for international travel depend on various factors, including your destination, the duration of your stay, your planned activities, and your current immunization status. Common travel vaccines may include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and others. Consulting with a healthcare professional or travel clinic is recommended to determine your specific vaccination needs.
The timing of vaccinations before travel can vary depending on the specific vaccine. Some vaccines require multiple doses over a period of time, while others may offer immediate protection. It is best to consult with a prescribing pharmacist well in advance of your travel to ensure you have enough time for the vaccination schedule. Please note that some vaccine series need to be started six weeks prior to exposure for optimal protection, so booking a consultation 6-8 weeks before your departure is ideal.
Some vaccines may be safe for pregnant women, while others are not recommended. It is important to discuss your travel plans and pregnancy with a pharmacist who can provide appropriate recommendations based on the specific vaccines and your individual circumstances.
Certain travel vaccines may not be recommended for individuals with specific allergies, medical conditions, or immunocompromised states. It is crucial to disclose your medical history and any known allergies to the pharmacist providing the vaccination to ensure the vaccines are appropriate and safe for you.
To book your appointment, easily select your preferred date and time online. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to call us at (587) 392-1584.
The length of your travel consultation will depend on different factors such as the variables in consideration of your travel plans, your personal health history, and what vaccines and/or medications you may require. The length will also vary based on how many individuals are in your travel party/receiving consultations. For the best estimate, give us a call to discuss and book your appointment.
Ideally, you should book your travel consultation at least 6-8 weeks in advance of your trip. Some vaccines require a series of injections and may take time before becoming effective.
While it’s not ideal to have limited time for vaccination, it’s still important to receive any necessary vaccines that are recommended or required for your travel. In some cases, even receiving partial protection through an accelerated schedule is better than not being vaccinated at all. Always prioritize your health and safety, and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice based on your situation.
We cannot legally advertise the price of vaccines.
Absolutely, in fact, should you request your appointment online we will reach out or call to find out the best time for you.
Although you may have already done your research, we always advise booking a consultation just in case there is information you missed or concerns you may not be aware of. If you require travel medications and vaccinations to be prescribed, a full consultation with the pharmacist will be required. Alternatively, you may bring in a prescription from another regulated healthcare provider for us to process and administer as appropriate.
