TORONTO, ONT.: CanAge, Canada’s National Seniors’ Advocacy organization, has released its expanded Vaccine Report Card, evaluating all 13 provinces and territories on their efforts to vaccinate older adults.
The report reveals a troubling divide: whilst some jurisdictions are stepping up protections, others are making decisions that leave vulnerable residents exposed.
“We’re seeing a dangerous patchwork emerge across Canada where your ability to stay healthy depends on which province you call home,” said Laura Tamblyn Watts, CEO of CanAge.
“Some jurisdictions are stepping up with comprehensive protection for older adults, whilst others are actually moving backwards—charging fees or cutting funding for vaccines that save lives and preserve independence.
“This shouldn’t be controversial: prevention works, and it’s far less expensive than treating preventable diseases.”
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Key findings from the report include:
- Prince Edward Island scored top marks with an A+, setting the national standard for comprehensive adult immunization
- Nova Scotia achieved second place with an A-, dramatically improved from F in 2023-24
- New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Yukon tied for third place with B+
- Alberta introduced a $100 administrative fee for COVID-19 vaccines this season
- Quebec also plans to restrict universal access to COVID-19 vaccines starting fall 2025
- British Columbia, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut received the lowest grades (D+ and F)
- Shingles vaccine funding remains inconsistent despite overwhelming evidence of effectiveness
The report evaluated all jurisdictions on funding, access, and public awareness for six vaccines: influenza, pneumococcal disease, shingles, and new this year, RSV, COVID-19, and Tdap.
This year’s expanded assessment covers three respiratory illness seasons and includes new scoring that better matches today’s immunization landscape.
“The solutions are right in front of us,” said Tamblyn Watts. “The high-performing provinces show exactly what works: fund the vaccines that evidence tells us are effective, make them accessible through multiple channels, and communicate clearly with the public. It’s not complicated—it just requires political courage to prioritize prevention.”
The latest edition of the Vaccine Report Card is available in English and French at www.canage.ca/vaccinereport2025.
