Immunizations

Publication date: April 8, 2024

B.C. has one of the most comprehensive immunization programs in Canada. Immunizations for adults and children are provided at public health units and pharmacies throughout the province. 

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Vaccines in B.C.

Immunizations, also known as vaccinations, are important for people of all ages. They help your immune system recognize and quickly kill bacteria and viruses, which can cause serious illness or death.

Immunizations for adults and children are provided at public health units and pharmacies throughout the province. The B.C. Immunization Schedule can help you determine when you or your family needs to be immunized and how to access these vaccines.

Vaccines for respiratory illnesses

Getting immunized against respiratory illnesses is the most effective way to stay safe.

Flu 

The best way to prevent flu is by getting immunized each year. Everyone 6 months and older can get a free flu vaccine this fall/winter.

Influenza (Flu) vaccine

COVID-19

Immunization is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against severe illness from COVID-19. Everyone 6 months of age and older can get the updated COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccine

Human papillomavirus (HPV) 

The HPV vaccine is a cancer-preventing vaccine that can benefit you, no matter your sex, gender, sexual orientation or sexual activity status.  It is given as a series of either 2 or 3 doses over a 6 month period.

In B.C., the HPV vaccine is offered to all students in grade 6 as part of B.C.’s routine immunization program. People who missed getting the HPV vaccine can receive it for free as long as they get their first dose before they turn 19 and the last dose before they turn 26.* 

It is also recommended and free for individuals ages 9 to 26 who are:

  • HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) positive
  • Two-Spirit, transgender or non-binary
  • Males who have sex with males, including those who may not yet be sexually active and are questioning their sexual orientation
  • Males who are street-involved

The Get Vaccinated system is sending notifications by text or email to males born in 2005 who are registered with the system that they are eligible for a free HPV vaccine*. Appointments can be booked through a local health unit or pharmacy. People living in First Nations communities can contact their community health centre or nursing station to book an appointment.

*Those born between January to June 2005 need to get their first dose before June 30, 2024 to receive the vaccine at no cost.

Other vaccines in B.C.

B.C. has one of the most comprehensive immunization programs in Canada. The vaccines you get in B.C. depends on your age and health status:

Get the facts about immunization

For health information and advice about immunization:

Keep your immunization records up to date

Access your immunization records

Register for Health Gateway to view your immunization records online and download your proof of vaccination documents.

Update your immunization records

If you were immunized outside B.C., you should add your records to the Provincial Immunization Registry. This helps to ensure that you get notified when it's time to book your next immunizations.

I need help

Phone the call centre if you need help with your COVID-19 and flu vaccine appointments:

Call: 1-833-838-2323 

Monday to Friday, 7 am to 7 pm. Statutory holidays, 9 am to 5 pm | Translators are available

Outside Canada and the USA: 1-604-681-4261

Translators services are available in more than 140 languages, including:

  • 國粵語
  • ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
  • فارسی
  • Français
  • Español

Telephone for the Deaf: Dial 711

Video Relay Services (VRS) sign language interpretation is free for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired