COVID-19 is an infection of the airways and lungs caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
Immunization is the best protection against COVID-19.
Getting immunized is particularly important during respiratory illness season, not only for preventing COVID-19 but also to stay healthy as respiratory illnesses circulate in our communities. This will help to ensure we keep ourselves, those around us, and our health-care system protected. Continue to wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick and follow provincial prevention guidelines.
More information on COVID-19 vaccines is available from the BC Government’s COVID-19 immunization site.
Most people with COVID-19 recover; however, some people have an increased chance of developing severe illness or complications from COVID-19 including older people and those with chronic health conditions. Other patients may have questions about how their health may be impacted by COVID-19.
Find more information on COVID-19 vaccines:
Resources:
Please visit Immunization Information for Healthcare Professionals for more information.
As part of the fall campaign, people can get their flu immunization at the same time as their COVID-19 immunization in most locations.
Public Health and Community Pharmacy Clinics: Starting October 7, invitations to book an appointment for COVID-19 will be sent. COVID-19 immunizations are available at no cost to eligible people 6 months and older in BC and can be booked when booking influenza vaccine through Get Vaccinated or by calling the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 (toll free).
If you haven’t already, register online. Once registered, you will receive a text or e-mail when it’s your turn to book an appointment.
| Age | Vaccine Provider | How To Book An Appointment | Reminders |
| 6 months to 11 years | Public Health |
|
|
| 12 + years | Community Pharmacy or Public Health in select areas |
Non-B.C. residents can call the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 (toll free) to enquire about vaccine appointment availability.
Rural and Remote Communities: This fall, immunization teams will visit specific remote communities in Island Health to provide flu and COVID-19 vaccine for all eligible people. Appointments are required to receive the vaccines at an Island Health clinic or at one of the many pharmacies now participating in the immunization campaign.
Between April 8th and June 30th, immunization teams will visit specific remote communities in Island Health to provide the COVID-19 vaccine for all eligible people. Appointments are required to receive the vaccines at an Island Health clinic or at one of the many pharmacies now participating in the immunization campaign.
Some primary care providers and other community vaccine providers will offer COVID-19 vaccines starting in mid-late October. Contact your primary care provider or other vaccine provider for more information.
Island Health residents who are homebound may be able to receive their immunization at home by Community Health Services nurses. If you are already receiving services from Community Health Services (Home Support, Home Care Nursing, etc.) contact your office to discuss if a homebound immunization is appropriate. If you are not receiving services, you can call the Community Access Line in your region to learn how they can help you and your family members.
As part of the fall campaign, people can get their flu vaccine at the same time as their COVID-19 vaccine in most locations. Starting in early-mid October, invitations to book an appointment for influenza will be sent through the Get Vaccinated system. If you haven’t already, visit https://www.getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca to register. Once registered, you will receive a text, phone call or e-mail when it’s your turn to book an appointment.
