COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 is an infection of the airways and lungs caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, tiredness and loss of smell or taste. While some people with COVID-19 may have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, others can require hospitalization and may die. Serious illness is more common in those who are older and those with certain chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or lung disease. For some people, symptoms of COVID-19 can last for weeks or longer. The long-term effects of COVID-19 on a person’s health are unknown.

Immunization is the best protection against COVID-19.

Getting a vaccine is particularly important this year, not only for preventing COVID-19 but also to stay healthy as influenza (flu) circulates in our communities. Continue to wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick and follow provincial prevention guidelines.

For information on COVID-19 vaccines, visit ImmunizeBC: COVID-19 Vaccine.

Community Vaccine Providers

Please visit Immunization Information for Healthcare Professionals for more information.

Where to get the COVID-19 vaccine in your community

As part of the fall campaign, people can get their flu vaccine at the same time as their COVID-19 vaccine in most locations. 

Public Health and Community Pharmacy Clinics

Starting in early October, invitations to book an appointment for COVID-19 and/or influenza vaccines will be sent through the Get Vaccinated system. If you haven’t already, visit www.getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca to register. Once registered, you will receive a text, phone call or e-mail when it’s your turn to book an appointment. 

Age Vaccine Provider How to Book an Appointment Reminders
6 months to 11 years Public Health

 

Get Vaccinated

  • Bring your BC Services Card (or other government ID) to your appointment
  • Wear a short sleeved shirt
12+ years Community Pharmacy or Public Health

Other Community Vaccine Providers

Some primary care providers and other community vaccine providers will offer COVID-19 vaccines starting in mid-late October. Contact your primary care provider or other vaccine provider for more information. 

Homebound Clients

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, contact the Community Access Centre at 1-888-533-2273 for an assessment.

    News & Events

    Walk-in availability makes it easy for families to get immunized heading into the holiday season

    Walk-in availability makes it easy for families to get immunized heading into the holiday season

    Now is the best time to get your influenza and COVID-19 immunizations to provide protection as we head into the holiday season and gather with loved ones.

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    Child getting immunized at an Island Health facility

    Reducing barriers and increasing access supports families to get immunized

    For physicians Aaron Childs and Sonja Mathes, vaccinating their three children is a matter of course. 

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    Child and mother

    Children under five years now eligible to register to receive the COVID-19 vaccine

    Beginning August 2, 2022, all people over the age of six months in B.C. can now receive protection against the COVID-19 virus, following Health Canada’s approval of the vaccine specifically formulated for children between the ages of six months and five years old.

    Read more