Fraser Health has launched its annual influenza and COVID-19 immunization campaign to raise awareness about the importance of getting both vaccines.
And, says the health authority, you can get both shots at once and save a trip.
"People will have the opportunity to receive influenza and COVID-19 immunizations at the same time. It is safe and recommended to receive these vaccines at the same immunization visit," Fraser Health said online late last month.
Getting immunized prevents the spread of influenza and COVID-19 and protects people at high risk of serious illness, such as young children, pregnant people, those 65 or older, and people with certain medical conditions, said Fraser Health.
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are updated each year to protect against the current viruses in circulation. Protection gained from these vaccines wears off over time, so it's important to stay updated with the immunizations, says Fraser Health.
People can book an appointment by:
- Watching for an email or text from the provincial Get Vaccinated system for a personalized booking link. Use that link to find a date, time and location.
- Or, people can call the provincial call centre (toll-free) to book influenza and COVID-19 immunizations at 1-833-838-2323.
Some immunization clinics will be dedicated for families with children from six months to 11 years of age. Appointments for children along with one family member can be booked through the provincial call centre at 1-888-838-2323.
If people have not registered with the Get Vaccinated system, they can do so at: getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca.
People can also contact their primary care provider to see if they are givbing influenza and/or COVID-19 immunizations this year.
Different flu vaccines are available this year, including free, enhanced flu vaccine for seniors 65 and older. The flu vaccine received depends on age, risk factors and availability.
Influenza and COVID-19 are spread by coughing, sneezing, talking and touching contaminated surfaces or objects, then touching the mouth, eyes or nose.
Symptoms of influenza include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and cough. COVID-19 shares these symptoms and can also cause loss of taste or smell, breathing difficulties, sore throat and nausea.
For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Government of B.C. understand my COVID-19 vaccine options page.
In addition to getting immunized, preventive measures proven effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and influenza include washing hands, wearing a mask if there are mild symptoms or if a person is recovering from illness and staying home when sick.
The health ministry said invitations for priority populations started going out Oct. 8. On the first day of delivery on Oct. 15, B.C. pharmacies administered almost 82,000 influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations, a daily record.
The previous daily vaccination record was on Oct. 12, 2023 when nearly 71,000 people received influenza and COVID-19 shots.
