SURREY, BC: Fraser Health is encouraging people to boost their immunity by getting immunized against influenza (flu) and COVID-19 to protect themselves, their loved ones and our health system.
Fraser Health has launched our annual influenza and COVID-19 vaccine campaign to raise awareness about the importance of getting both vaccines. Getting immunized helps prevent the spread of influenza and COVID-19 and protects people at high risk of serious illness, such as young children (influenza), pregnant people, Indigenous people, people over 65 years of age and people with chronic medical conditions.
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are free of charge and are safe, effective and recommended for everyone in B.C. six months of age and older. People will have the opportunity to receive influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. It is safe and recommended to receive the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time.
Influenza vaccines are updated yearly in the fall to protect against the viruses currently circulating. As protection from the influenza vaccine wears off with time, it is important to stay up-to-date on your influenza vaccine.
Similar to the influenza vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine is updated to match the strains of COVID-19 virus in circulation as closely as possible. The fall 2023 COVID-19 vaccine targets the XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant. Evidence shows that the updated vaccine should provide good protection against currently circulating COVID-19 strains. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines, please visit the ImmunizeBC COVID-19 vaccine resource page.
To book your vaccine appointment:
Look for an email or text from the provincial Get Vaccinated system for your personalized booking link. Use that link to find a date, time and location that works for you. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccine appointment invitations are rolling out throughout October.
Alternatively, you can phone the provincial call centre (toll-free) to book your influenza vaccine at 1-833-838-2323.
If you have not registered with the Get Vaccinated system, you may register at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca.
For Fraser Health information about influenza and COVID-19, visit fraserhealth.ca/defence.
