Seasonal influenza, often called the flu, is a serious infectious and contagious respiratory illness. You can spread the flu 24 hours before showing any symptoms and five days after symptoms begin. Learn more about Influenza.
Immunization is the best protection against the flu. Getting a flu vaccine is particularly important this year, not only for preventing influenza but also to stay healthy while COVID-19 continues to circulate in our communities. Continue to wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick and follow provincial prevention guidelines. This flu season everyone 6 months and older is eligible for a free flu vaccine in B.C.
Community Vaccine Providers
Please visit Immunization Information for Healthcare Professionals for more information.
Where to get the flu 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 Pharmacies Clinics: Starting in early-mid October, invitations to book an appointment for influenza will be sent through the Get Vaccinated system. If you haven’t already, register online. Once registered, you will receive a text or e-mail when it’s your turn to book an appointment.
|
Age
|
Vaccine Provider
|
How to Book an Appointment
|
Reminders
|
| 6 months – 11 years |
Public Health or Community Pharmacy (some pharmacies offer flu vaccine for those 2 years and older) |
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 in select areas
|
Non-B.C. Residents: Community pharmacists are only able to immunize B.C. residents (those with a Personal Health Number). Non-B.C. residents can call the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 (toll free) to enquire about vaccine appointment availability.
Other Community Vaccine Providers: Some primary care providers and other community vaccine providers will offer influenza 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, you can call the Community Access Line in your region to learn how they can help you and your family members.
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