Cold and flu season is here, with respiratory illnesses on the increase, but updated vaccines that protect against the latest influenza strains and COVID-19 variants that are circulating are now available in B.C. to help protect families, communities, and the health care system.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer for B.C., is once again encouraging people who are six months and older to get immunized with the updated influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, and to exercise healthy habits to stay well this fall and winter.
"This is the time of year when we see increases in viral respiratory illnesses in B.C., including influenza and COVID-19, so it is particularly important to remember healthy habits we can all follow to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities," Henry said.
"That includes covering your cough, cleaning your hands regularly, staying away from others if you have a cough or a fever, wearing a mask if you have lingering symptoms or need extra protection, and getting the updated influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. By getting immunized for both influenza and COVID-19, we are not only protecting ourselves, but also those around us."
Invitations for immunizations for priority populations began in early October. These groups include the people most at risk of severe illness and complications, such as seniors 65 and older, residents in long-term care facilities, people with chronic health conditions (eg. cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc.), and health care workers. People will be able to receive influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, if they want.
Vaccines are available in more than 1,300 participating pharmacies, health authority clinics, and at some primary-care providers' offices throughout the province. People can call 1-833-838-2323 if they have questions or need help booking. The vaccines remain free and are available for all B.C. residents six months and older, including enhanced influenza vaccines for seniors.
Health Canada has approved updated mRNA vaccines targeting the KP.2 COVID-19 subvariant. These vaccines are approved for use for people six months and older, and are available as part of B.C.'s fall and winter respiratory illness vaccine program.
B.C. has ordered 2.2 million doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccines and 2.3 million doses of the new influenza vaccine for the 2024–25 respiratory illness season, including enhanced influenza vaccines for seniors.
Check for vaccine clinics in or near your community. The Ashcroft Community Health Centre offers immunizations; for more information call (250) 453-2211. To stay up to date with your free flu and COVID-19 immunizations, register at https://www.getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca/s/; you can also call (toll-free) 1-833-838-2323, or register in-person at any Service BC office.
