British Columbians are now eligible to get a flu shot, but one of the ways to get it is changing for the first time.
This year, people enrolled in the province’s Get Vaccinated system will automatically receive an invitation to book their flu immunization online, just as they can book their COVID-19 shots, the province said in a statement.
However, people can still walk into some pharmacies to get their flu shot, or people can still call the provincial call center (toll-free) to book their flu shot at 1-833-838-2323.
“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect ourselves and our communities, and we’ve made it easy for British people to do so,” Health Secretary Adrian Dix said in a statement.
“We continue to offer free flu shots to everyone, and seniors can now get more protection with an improved vaccine. To make it even easier, many people will be able to get their flu and COVID-19 shots at the same time.”
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3:48 Health Matters: How to get a flu shot now that they’re available Health Matters: How to get a flu shot now that they’re available
Read more: BC braces for tough flu season as health experts encourage vaccination
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BC is bracing for a tough flu season as health experts encourage vaccination
Health officials in BC have been warning about a potentially challenging flu season ahead.
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While pandemic precautions made the past two flu seasons exceptionally mild, Australia, which experiences its flu season earlier this year, had its worst season in five years, according to health officials as provincial health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.
Health officials fear the back-to-school season, combined with relaxed public health restrictions, could spell the same fate for B.C.
“I strongly encourage everyone, especially the elderly, young children and anyone with underlying health conditions, to get their flu immunizations as soon as they receive their invitation through ‘Get Vaccinated BC’ to get the better protection,” Henry said.
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“Getting a flu shot is especially important this year as our immunity to the virus has waned after two years of low flu rates.”
2:01 Province warns of likely COVID-19, flu increase this fall Province warns of likely COVID-19, flu increase this fall – September 28, 2022
The flu shot is free for anyone six months of age or older, and this year, all seniors 65 and older are getting a free booster shot.
It was previously only free for seniors living in long-term care homes, assisted living settings and First Nations communities.
BC health officials say it’s also possible for people to get a flu shot and a fall COVID-19 booster at the same time.
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