RSV vaccine

Last updated: September 18th, 2026 at 4:23pm

The RSV vaccine is the best way to help protect people at higher risk of severe RSV illness.

To learn more about RSV visit HealthLinkBC.

When to choose

Beginning fall 2026, people who have not received an RSV vaccine can receive a one-time dose, for free, if you are:    

  • 75 years and older
  • First Nations, Métis, and Inuit (Indigenous) people 60 years and older

 

Until the end of March 2027, First Nations Health Benefits will cover an RSV vaccine at pharmacies for eligible First Nations people who are 28 to 36 weeks pregnant.

 

The RSV vaccine is recommended, but is not free for: 

  • Pregnant people, received between 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy

How to begin

Pharmacies

People eligible for a free vaccine:

  • Contact a participating pharmacy to confirm if they have vaccine in stock. 
  • Ask if they are booking appointments or accepting walk-in appointments.
See the list of participating pharmacies

South Island

Central Island

North Island

People not eligible for a free vaccine:

Contact BC Pharmacy to be immunized.

Rural and remote communities

In rural and remote communities where there are no participating pharmacies, the RSV vaccine will be available at upcoming Island Health immunization clinics (dates coming soon).

List of rural and remote communities
  • Port Alice 
  • Woss 
  • Sointula 
  • Hornby Island 
  • Denman Island 
  • Read Island 
  • Cortes Island 
  • Sayward 
  • Bamfield 
  • Lasqueti 
  • Gabriola Island 
  • Thetis Island 
  • Mayne Island 
  • Galiano Island 
  • Saturna Island 
  • Port Renfrew   

Long-term care and assisted living

Eligible residents of long-term care and assisted living will be offered vaccination in their residence.

Homebound people

If you are homebound, you may be able to get your RSV vaccine at home. Call your community health services office or the community access line for help.

What to expect

Before you go

  • Contact the pharmacy to confirm RSV vaccine availability and how immunization is being offered.
  • Wear a short-sleeve top.
  • Bring your BC Services Card or photo ID.

At your appointment

  • A pharmacist or nurse will ask a few quick health questions.
  • The vaccine goes in your upper arm and takes a few seconds.
  • Plan to stay up to 15 minutes after, just to be safe.

After you leave

  • A sore arm is common. You might feel tired or have a mild fever for a day or two.
  • Move your arm and use a cool cloth to help with soreness.
  • Most people feel fine the next day.

Need more help?

Call 1-833-838-2323 to find out if you can get the vaccine and get help with questions about getting vaccinated.

Resources for health professionals

Information for community vaccine providers
Information for long-term care and assisted living facilities