People at higher risk of severe illness are encouraged to get an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose this spring.
Invitations to eligible groups will begin in late April.
If you have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine, or want to get a vaccination outside of the respiratory season, please contact your local public health unit directly.
COVID-19 is an infection of the airways and lungs caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
Getting immunized is particularly important during respiratory illness season, not only for preventing COVID-19 but also to stay healthy as respiratory illnesses circulate in our communities. This will help to ensure we keep ourselves, those around us, and our health-care system protected. Continue to wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick and follow provincial prevention guidelines.
More information on COVID-19 vaccines is available from the BC Government’s COVID-19 immunization site.
Most people with COVID-19 recover; however, some people have an increased chance of developing severe illness or complications from COVID-19 including older people and those with chronic health conditions. Other people may have questions about how their health may be impacted by COVID-19.
Find more information on COVID-19 vaccines:
Resources:
Please visit Immunization Information for Healthcare Professionals for more information.
Beginning late April, invitations to book an appointment for COVID-19 will be sent to select populations. COVID-19 immunizations are available at no cost to eligible people 6 months and older in BC and can be booked through Get Vaccinated or by calling the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 (toll free).
| Age | Vaccine Provider | How To Book An Appointment | Reminders |
| 6 months to 11 years | Public Health |
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| 12 + years | Community Pharmacy or Public Health in select areas |
If you are not a BC resident, your access to publicly funded COVID-19 vaccines is more limited:
• Vaccinations are not available at pharmacies
• Appointments are prioritized for BC residents, especially those at higher risk
• Walk-ins are not available at public health units
Non-B.C. residents can call the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 (toll free) to enquire about vaccine appointment availability.
This spring, immunization teams will visit specific remote communities in Island Health to provide COVID-19 vaccine for eligible people.
Appointments are required to receive the vaccines at an Island Health clinic or at one of the many pharmacies participating in the immunization campaign.
Island Health residents who are homebound may be able to receive their immunization at home by Community Health Services nurses. If you are already receiving services from Community Health Services (Home Support, Home Care Nursing, etc.) contact your office to discuss if a homebound immunization is appropriate. If you are not receiving services, you can call the Community Access Line in your region to learn how they can help you and your family members.
Please visit Influenza Vaccine for more information.
