Influenza (Flu) Vaccine

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.

For information on influenza vaccines, visit ImmunizeBC.

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. 

Walk-in schedule for children aged six months – 11 years

Public Health and Community Pharmacy Clinics

Starting in early October, invitations to book an appointment for influenza and/or COVID-19 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 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

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

News & Events

immunizations

Catch up with confidence: stay up to date with childhood immunizations

As a new school year beckons, and in recognition of National Immunization Awareness Month in August, Island Health encourages parents to ensure that vaccinations are on their children’s back-to-school list.

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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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National Immunization Awareness Month

Vaccines save lives: stay up to date with immunizations for all ages

In recognition of National Immunization Awareness Month in August, Island Health is highlighting the importance of immunizations for children, youth and adults.

Read more