Fraser Health is encouraging people six months and older in our communities to prepare for winter’s viral respiratory illness season by getting immunized to protect themselves, their loved ones and the health system.
In winter, the health system tends to see higher volumes of patients who present to the Emergency Department, including people seeking care for illnesses such as Influenza (flu) and COVID-19. By proactively getting immunized against flu and COVID-19, you can help us keep our Emergency Departments available to support people who need care for an urgent or emergent health concern.
Flu and COVID-19 can cause severe complications such as pneumonia, hospitalization or death in vulnerable people. Getting immunized prevents the spread of both viruses and protects people at high risk of serious illness, including young children, pregnant people, Indigenous people, people over 65 years of age and those with certain medical conditions.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are updated each year to protect against the current viruses in circulation. As protection from these vaccines wears off with time, it is important to stay up to date on immunizations, particularly for people at highest risk of severe illnesses and complications.
This year, you can book your appointment by:
- Watching for an email or text from the provincial Get Vaccinated system with your personalized booking link. Use that link to find a date, time and location that works for you. If the appointment date and time you want is not available when you are booking, please log on or call again later as more appointments are being added to the system as additional vaccine supply arrives in B.C.
- Alternatively, you can call the Get Vaccinated call centre (toll-free) to book your immunizations at 1-833-838-2323.
Some immunization clinics will be dedicated to families with children six months to 11 years of age. Appointments for children can be booked through the provincial call centre at 1-888-838-2323; one accompanying family member can also be immunized in the appointment.
If you have not registered with the Get Vaccinated system, you may register at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca or by calling 1-833-838-2323. You can also contact your primary care provider and see if they are providing immunizations this year.
Throughout our region, pharmacists are making it easier than ever to get vaccinated, providing 87 per cent of flu and COVID-19 vaccines to people aged 12 and older. You can check with a local pharmacy to see if they have walk-in appointments or book through the Get Vaccinated system or call centre.
People will have the opportunity to receive flu and COVID-19 immunizations in one visit. It is safe and recommended to receive these vaccines at the same time.
The flu vaccine you receive will depend on your age, risk factors and availability. Seniors 65 years of age and older are eligible to receive a free enhanced flu vaccine. To learn more, please visit the Government of BC flu vaccine page.
Flu and COVID-19 spread from coughing, sneezing, talking and touching contaminated surfaces or objects then touching your mouth, eyes or nose. Symptoms of flu 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 more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit the Government of BC COVID-19 vaccine page.
In addition to getting immunized, preventive measures proven effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and flu include washing your hands, wearing a mask and staying home when sick.
For Fraser Health information about flu and COVID-19, visit fraserhealth.ca/defence.
Winter wellness starts here. By taking simple steps now, you can get a head start on winter health and safety. From getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19, practicing healthy habits, knowing the best care option or learning how to stay safe in cold and wet weather, we have you covered. Learn more at fraserhealth.ca/WinterSetGo.
About Fraser Health:
We recognize that Fraser Health provides care on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the Coast Salish and Nlaka’pamux Nations and is home to 32 First Nations within the Fraser Salish region.
Fraser Health is dedicated to serving all Indigenous peoples, and honours the unique cultures of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit living within the Fraser Salish region.
Our hospital and community-based services are delivered by a team of 50,000+ staff, medical staff and volunteers dedicated to serving our patients, families and communities.
