The short version: flu and COVID vaccines are both free, for everyone six months and older, but this year BC books by invitation. The province sends booking notices through the Get Vaccinated system in waves. Priority groups started getting notices on Oct. 5, appointments begin as early as Oct. 13, and invitations expand to the general population through early November.
Who gets invited first
People at higher risk of serious illness go first: adults 65 and older, pregnant people, long-term care residents, Indigenous people, people with chronic conditions, and children under five for flu. If you are not on the priority list, do not worry: the waves keep expanding, and everyone is included by early November.
Booking in three steps
- Register. If you are already in the Get Vaccinated system, your notice arrives by text or email. If not, register online or call 1-833-838-2323.
- Wait for your notice. It carries a booking link; pick a time and place from there.
- Get vaccinated. Locations include health authority clinics, more than 1,400 participating pharmacies, and some family doctor and primary-care offices.
Where to go
For most people, a nearby pharmacy is the easiest option. The booking page lists locations near you. The Pharmacy Care clinics in this directory can help you find pharmacy locations, but vaccine availability and time slots are set by the Get Vaccinated booking page. Some pharmacies also take walk-ins for shots; hours and stock depend on the store.
Two things that are new this year
- Nasal spray flu vaccine for kids: children two and older can get the flu vaccine as a nasal spray instead of a needle; look for the option when booking.
- Free RSV vaccine, new this year: under a time-limited program, adults 75 and older, residents 75 and older in long-term care and assisted living, and First Nations, Inuit and Métis people 60 and older can get the RSV vaccine free. One dose is enough, and it is offered year round.
What if your MSP is not active yet
If you have just arrived and your MSP coverage is still in the waiting period, you can still register with Get Vaccinated or call 1-833-838-2323 and explain your situation. Staff will tell you how to arrange it. Do not assume you cannot get vaccinated just because your card has not started.