Flu, COVID-19 vaccines rates up in B.C.

The number of British Columbians who have rolled up their sleeves to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccine this year is up slightly compared to 2024.

As of Nov. 30, the Ministry of Health tells 1130 NewsRadio that 1,207,630 individuals in B.C. have been vaccinated for influenza, compared to 1,189,125 at this time last year. Meanwhile, 920,396 have been vaccinated for COVID-19 compared to 910,988 at this time last year.

Dr. Brian Conway, medical director of the Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, says it seems like all those provincial ads about getting inoculated are working.

“I’m quite taken by the commercials I’m seeing,” said Conway.

“If you want to play pickleball, go skiing or go to a party, get your shots. Make sure a respiratory illness doesn’t interrupt your plans. The fact that we’re ahead of the pace of last year, I find quite encouraging.”

He points out the province isn’t seeing any high-level outbreaks, but says that could change in an instant if people aren’t careful.

Conway adds right now is the sweet spot to get your shots, if you haven’t already, to protect you and your loved ones over the holidays.

“This is important because for the holidays. You might be seeing some of your older relatives that you don’t tend to see very often. You might be seeing people who are unwell, and, to protect them — as much as anything else — this is a great time to go get your shot. It takes a week to 10 days for the shot to kick in… so you’re maximally covered for yourself and those around you.”

Tips to stay healthy

• Stay away from others if you are feeling sick so you do not spread illness to others, especially those at higher risk of severe disease and complications
• Wear a mask if you are sick and cannot stay away from others, and as a personal choice
• Clean your hands regularly using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Sneeze or cough into your elbow instead of your hand

Conway explains he’s seeing the demand first-hand.

“At our own centre… I got what I thought was an adequate supply, and I ran out in two days.”

However, more than five years into the COVID-19 pandemic, Conway says there is still some hesitancy to get that shot.

“Hopefully, people will view this as a normal and positive thing to get vaccinated every for flu and COVID. The COVID-19 shot is more an issue of, ‘Do I really need it?’ Because the recommendations have really narrowed to those who really should get it, not necessarily the general population.”

Conway says if you’re travelling, are among the very young, very old, or have underlying health conditions, it’s highly recommended you get both.

1130 NewsRadio has received reports that some local pharmacies have run out of the flu vaccine.

The Ministry of Health says there is no shortage, and the province has enough supply of both shots.

“The main reason why some appointments were rescheduled or cancelled at pharmacies is due to supply management at the local level. The BC Pharmacy Association has been sending weekly reminders to some pharmacies at risk of overbooking to monitor their supply more closely and manage appointments appropriately. Clients who have had their immunization appointment rescheduled or cancelled should keep checking with their local pharmacies or online in the Get Vaccinated system – new appointments are being added every week as more doses arrive at pharmacies across the province,” it said in a statement to 1130 NewsRadio.

Shots have been available in B.C. since October.