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Influenza

Influenza (flu) is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others against influenza.

As of December 4, 2019, hospital visitors and health care workers must comply with the Amended Influenza Prevention Policy as outlined by PHSA and the BC Ministry of Health. 

Hospital visitors who have not had the flu shot are still required to wear a mask in patient care areas. Health care workers are expected to follow best practice and either be vaccinated or apply appropriate use of masking in patient care areas during flu season.

 
During the flu season, which typically lasts December through March, any visitor who has not had their flu shot must wear a mask while in patient care areas. This will help protect your loved ones – the people you are visiting – from getting a potentially serious illness.
 
People planning to visit loved ones in a health-care facility or who will take family members to outpatient appointments are also eligible for a free flu shot.
 
Masks are available at nursing stations, outpatient reception desks and/or the main entrances of our facilities.
 
For information about how to wear a mask,
 




You can book an appointment:
  • With your family doctor
  • At a walk-in clinic
  • With your pharmacist
  • Public Health clinic

Clinics at pharmacies are listed on ImmunizeBC's flu clinic locator.


 

Who can get a free seasonal flu shot?

  • Children 6 months to less than 5 years of age
  • Pregnant women
  • Seniors 65 years and older
  • Residents living in residential care, assisted living or other group facilities
  • Indigenous people
  • Children and adolescents (six months to 18 years) with conditions treated for long periods of time with acetylsalicylic acid
  • Children and adults with chronic health conditions, including obesity
  • Household contacts of people at high risk
  • Health care and other care providers in facilities and community settings who are capable of transmitting influenza to those at high risk of influenza complications
  • People who provide essential services including first responders and correction officers
  • People who work with live poultry
  • People planning to visit loved ones in a health care facility or who will take family members to outpatient appointments are also eligible for a family members to outpatient appointments are also eligible for a free flu shot.
SOURCE: Influenza ( )
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