Seasonal influenza, often called the flu, is a serious infectious and contagious respiratory illness. You can spread the flu 24 hours before showing any symptoms and five days after symptoms begin.Learn more about Influenza.
Island Health's Public Health teams are working with primary care providers to make vaccines available in our communities. Public Health, primary care providers and pharmacists will be offering influenza vaccines this season. Getting a flu shot is particularly important this year, not only for influenza prevention, but also to stay healthy while COVID-19 continues to circulate in our communities. A flu shot can reduce your chance of developing symptoms that resemble COVID-19, which would require you to get tested and self-isolate. This year, influenza vaccination isfree of charge for everyone in BC 6 months and older.
Immunization is the best protection against the flu. Continue to wash your hands frequently, stay home when you are sick and follow provincial prevention guidelines such as physical distancing and wearing a facemask to reduce respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.
This year’s influenza vaccine contains strains that have changed from last year’s vaccine.
Information on this page is for Community Vaccine Providers (CVPs) within Island Health.
Information on this page is for staff who work at long-term care or assisted living facilities located within Island Health.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting a flu shot.
Everyone aged six months and older is eligible for a free flu vaccine
