Respiratory illnesses

Publication date: October 8, 2026

Protect yourself and your community from viral respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and influenza.

Viral respiratory illness season

Viral respiratory illnesses are more common in the fall and winter. Learn how to protect yourself and others and what to do if you get sick.

COVID-19 testing and treatment

Testing can determine if you have COVID-19. There are two approved treatments to help prevent severe illness in people who are at higher risk from COVID-19.

COVID-19 immunizations

COVID-19 immunization appointments will start as early as October 13, 2026 and continue this fall and winter. If a COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you, you will receive a notification through the Get Vaccinated system when it's time to book your appointment.

Influenza (flu) vaccine

Influenza immunization appointments begin on October 13, 2026 and will continue this fall and winter. Everyone in B.C. who is registered in the Get Vaccinated system will get a notification when it's time to book an appointment. 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization program

Immunizations help protect against severe illness caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Starting in fall 2026, eligible older adults in B.C. can get an RSV vaccine at no-cost.

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