Feeling sick? Find out what’s causing it. Join our PREPARED research study for free viral testing and help Canadians by contributing to scientific research.

Text 1-855-600-5644 to see if you are eligible for a free test for respiratory viruses

We are offering in-person rapid and PCR tests for multiple viruses at community pharmacies (listed below) in Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Edmonton, Spruce Grove, Lethbridge, and Red Deer.

For residents of Lethbridge and Red Deer, we are now also offering free, rapid at-home test kits for COVID-19 and Influenza A and B (the flu), sent directly to your home via courier.

We are providing these tests for people with respiratory symptoms to help detect what respiratory viruses are in the community and potentially develop new vaccines and treatments.

If you meet the criteria below, you may be eligible. We will ask you to go to your nearest participating pharmacy to undergo nasal swabbing and answer a brief survey, or we will send a test kit to your home so you can test yourself.

Eligibility criteria

Age 5+ with at least 2 of the following respiratory symptoms in the past 7 days:

• Rhinitis, cough, rapid breathing, wheezing, sore throat, nasal congestion, hard to breathe, loss of smell or taste, blood in sputum, trouble sleeping because of breathing difficulties, excessive mucus production

OR

One of the respiratory symptoms mentioned above plus one or more of the following:

• Fatigue, joint stiffness or pain, fever (over 37.5°C), feeling weak, tired and may be unable to stand, painful or sore muscles, chills, night sweats

Pharmacy locations

Contact prepared@ucalgary.ca for questions related to the study in Alberta