Documents to bring
Gather the documents you'll need to bring to the appointment:
- your Alberta healthcare card (if you forget to bring this to the appointment, you can still get a vaccine)
- your photo ID (such as a driver’s licence or passport) or 2 pieces of non-photo ID (such as a birth certificate or healthcare card)
- any immunizations records you have
If your child is getting a vaccine, you'll need to bring:
- your child’s Alberta healthcare card (if you forget to bring this to the appointment, your child can still get a vaccine)
- your photo ID or 2 pieces of non-photo ID
- any immunization records you have for your child
If you have recently adopted a child, are caring for a foster child, or are acting as a child’s guardian, you will need to bring other documents showing you are authorized as the decision-maker for the child. These documents are required for the child to be immunized. If you have questions about what to bring, call your local public health or community health centre.
Planning for the appointment
Plan to spend 30 to 60 minutes at your appointment. This includes a short wait to watch for side effects after getting a vaccine. Sometimes appointments will take more time, and your patience is appreciated when this happens.
On the day of your appointment, wear clothing that will allow easy access to your upper arm, such as a loose t-shirt. For babies, choose clothing that is easy to take off or that keeps their upper legs free for the immunization.
To help you prepare for your appointment, learn where on your body the needle is given. This can also help if you plan to use numbing medicine.
If you have a fear of needles or concerns about pain from getting a vaccine, AHS Commitment to Comfort has ideas and tips to make immunization easier.
As a parent, it’s OK — and normal — to feel a bit nervous about your child getting a vaccine. We have tips to help you get ready and to help your child be as comfortable as possible when they get a vaccine.