British Columbia launches free fall vaccine program amid rising flu cases

The British Columbia Ministry of Health has started its autumn immunisation campaign, providing free shots against influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pneumococcal disease. Dr. Bonnie Henry, the province's health officer, noted that influenza cases are already circulating, underscoring the need for vaccination, especially among high-risk groups such as people aged 65 and over, pregnant individuals, long-term-care residents, Indigenous peoples and those with underlying health issues.

Registration for the program began on Oct. 5 for priority groups, with appointments opening to the general public from Oct. 13 and expanding through early November. Vaccines can be obtained at health-authority clinics, more than 1,400 participating pharmacies and some primary-care offices, with registration handled through the Get Vaccinated system. The province has secured almost two million flu doses and 1.5 million updated COVID-19 doses, and offers a one-time RSV vaccine to adults 75 and older, including those in long-term-care facilities and Indigenous seniors aged 60 and up.