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. Continue to wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick and follow provincial prevention guidelines.
The 2024 COVID-19 Spring Booster Campaign ended on June 30, 2024. It is generally recommended to wait until the fall 2024 respiratory illness season to receive your next COVID-19 immunization.
Invitations to book a COVID-19 vaccine through the Get Vaccinated system will resume in fall 2024. Pending Health Canada approval, there may be a new COVID-19 vaccine this fall. If you receive a COVID-19 vaccine over the summer, it will result in a delay in receiving a fall 2024 COVID-19 vaccine as there must be a minimum of 3 months between COVID-19 doses. If you have questions, please speak with your Doctor, Pharmacist, or local Public Health unit.
For information on COVID-19 vaccines, visit ImmunizeBC: COVID-19 Vaccine.
Please visit Immunization Information for Healthcare Professionals for more information.
