Shoppers Drug Mart apologizes after B.C. patient charged for flu shot

Loblaw has confirmed that one of its Shoppers Drug Mart locations in Vancouver wrongfully charged someone a fee for a flu shot last week.

The grocery giant says there was confusion at its store and pharmacy on Denman Street that led to at least one person paying unnecessarily. 

B.C. government guidelines state that everyone six months of age or older with a valid health card can get a shot free of charge. 

Loblaw says it has since corrected the issue and is working to ensure a refund is given. 

“We can confirm that one patient was mistakenly charged for their flu shot,” the company said.

A representative added that Loblaw sincerely apologizes for the confusion.

The province says it’s handed out nearly a million flu vaccines and almost 700,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots in the last ten days.

“During the 2024-25 respiratory illness season, influenza and COVID-19 vaccines remain free and are available for all B.C. residents six months and older, including enhanced influenza vaccines for seniors.”