Free flu shots now available for B.C. residents

As of today, British Columbia residents, aged six months and older, can get a free flu shot at participating pharmacies, health authority clinics or at some primary-care providers’ offices.

Influenza vaccines have been available for seniors and other people at higher risk of severe illness or complications since Oct. 3.

With the start of the respiratory illness season, the province is preparing for the possibility of a surge in flu cases, following two years of low rates due to public-health restrictions that reduced travel and socialization. It is also expected that COVID-19 cases will increase as more people gather indoors and travel.

The province is making it more convenient for people to get vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19. New this year, people registered with the provincial Get Vaccinated system will automatically be sent an invitation to book their flu shot online, just like they can book their COVID-19 vaccines.

People can also walk into a clinic or pharmacy to get a flu shot, or phone the provincial call centre (toll-free) to book their vaccine: 1-833-838-2323

“I strongly encourage everyone, especially seniors, young children and anyone with underlying health issues, to get their influenza immunizations as soon as they receive their invitation through Get Vaccinated BC for the best protection,” Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, said. “Getting vaccinated against influenza is especially important this year as our immunity against the virus has waned following two years of low influenza rates.”

The health ministry is also offering all seniors 65 and older an enhanced influenza vaccine for free. Previously, the enhanced shots were offered only to seniors living in long-term care homes, assisted living settings and First Nations communities.

“Enhanced influenza vaccines offer seniors better protection against influenza than standard-dose vaccines. This is because they stimulate stronger immune responses, which compensate for the natural weakening of the immune system that occurs with age. A stronger immune response can lead to better protection against influenza,” a news release from the ministry stated.

B.C. will distribute more than 1.8 million doses of flu vaccines for the 2022-23 influenza season, including more than 660,000 doses of enhanced shots for seniors.

Almost 1,300 community pharmacies across B.C. are offering the shots.

To learn more about the influenza vaccines, visit: https://immunizebc.ca/influenza