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Despite a bumpy rollout of B.C.’s influenza immunization campaign, a record number of British Columbians have rolled up their sleeves to get a shot, said the health ministry.
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More than 630,000 British Columbians have received a flu vaccine since the campaign’s Oct. 11 launch.
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About 43 per cent who received their flu shot got their COVID-19 fall booster at the same time.
Health experts have been predicting a surge in flu cases this year compared to the last two years when pandemic precautions such as masking and social distancing helped cut down on cases.
But with society largely back to normal, B.C. health officials are urging people to get a flu shot as well as a bivalent COVID-19 booster to better protect themselves during the upcoming respiratory season.
For the first time, the province is offering everyone six months of age or older free flu shots, which can be administered in health-authority clinics, doctor’s offices or pharmacies. Seniors age 65 and older are eligible for an enhanced influenza vaccine, which is also free.
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Health officials say it is safe to get the COVID-19 booster and flu vaccines at the same time. The province’s Get Vaccinated system allows you to book one appointment for both shots.
If you prefer getting the COVID-19 booster and flu shot on different days, however, choose which one you want to get first. When that appointment is complete, the system will allow you to book a second appointment.
How to get your flu shot:
• Book an appointment at a health-authority clinic or pharmacy through Get Vaccinated (you have to be registered with the system).
• Book an appointment by phoning the toll-free provincial call centre at 1 833 838-2323.
• Book an appointment at your doctor’s or primary health-care provider’s office if they provide flu shots.
B.C. sees record uptake for free flu vaccines - Vancouver Sun
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