FAQ

Select a category from the dropdown menu to browse frequently asked questions by topic, or search the entire FAQ or a specific category by keyword.

Where can I or my family get travel vaccines?
You can get travel vaccines at travel health clinics, most pharmacies, and some doctors’ offices. For the yellow fever vaccine, you will need to go to a designated yellow fever vaccination centre. 
 
You have to pay for most travel vaccines. 
 
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Can I or my child still get vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The pandemic has affected where and how services are delivered and services vary throughout BC. Call your local *health unit for advice on where to get the vaccines you need. Ask to speak to a public health nurse.
 
If you or your child usually get immunized at your doctor’s office and they are closed, please contact your local *health unit to make an appointment.
 
When immunization services are stopped, even for a short time, there is a risk for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles. It’s important to keep immunizations up to date. Delaying vaccines could leave you, your child, your family, and your community at risk for disease.
 
If you have questions about you or your child getting immunized during the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact your local *health unit.
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC.
 
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Do I need a prescription for vaccines?

Most vaccines in BC (including all vaccines that are routinely recommended in BC) do not require a prescription.  However, some insurance plans may cover the cost of the vaccine and may require a prescription for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider. 

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My child is being homeschooled during the COVID-19 pandemic. How can they receive their school-age immunizations?

Please contact your local health unit to book your child's vaccines and tell them they are homeschooled. Due to the pandemic, health units may not be providing immunization for older children when there is the option of going to a pharmacy. Find info about vaccine schedules. 

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What do I need to bring other than my child's care card when getting immunized?
You may not need to bring your child’s care card if you have already provided it when you made an appointment at a public health unit but it is always useful to have it with you. If you are attending a drop in clinic at a health unit it will be helpful to have the care card with you so that the nurse can find your child’s record in the computer or so that a record can be created for your child if you are new to the province. If you are getting vaccines at a pharmacy or a doctor, you will need your care card in order to get the vaccines for free. 
 
It is important to bring your child's immunization record with you to the appointment so that the person giving the vaccine can fill it out. If your child was born in BC, you should have received a Child Health Passport that contains an immunization record. If you didn’t receive one, you can request one from your local health unit.
 
There are things you can do before, during, and after the immunization appointment that can help make immunizations easier and less stressful for both you and your child. Find more information here about your child’s appointment. 
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My baby had chickenpox infection during their first year of life. Do they still need the vaccine?
People who had chickenpox before their 1st birthday should still get the vaccine. This is because they may not have developed a long-lasting immunity (protection) and could get chickenpox again.
 
 
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Why do children get vaccines starting at such a young age?
The recommended schedule is designed to protect infants and young children early in life, when they are most vulnerable, and before they are potentially exposed to vaccine-preventable diseases.
 
Infants and young children are at greater risk from vaccine-preventable diseases because their immune systems are less mature and less able to fight off infection. If an infant or young child were to get a vaccine-preventable disease, it could be very serious and life-threatening.
 
Vaccinating children on time (starting at 2 months of age) gives them the best protection as early as possible.
 
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Why do most vaccines require more than one dose?
Most vaccines require more than one dose over time to produce immunity and long-lasting protection. The number of doses needed depends on the type of vaccine.
 
There are two main types of vaccines: live attenuated vaccines and inactivated/subunit vaccines. Learn what these terms mean below and how they affect the number of doses you need for full protection.
 

Live attenuated vaccines

Live vaccines are made from a weakened version of the germ (virus or bacteria) that causes the disease. When a person receives a live vaccine, the germ in the vaccine multiplies (grows) in the body and stimulates an immune response almost identical to that produced by natural infection. Because it is weakened, the vaccine germ cannot multiply enough to cause disease in people with healthy immune systems. However, live vaccines are not given to people with very weak immune systems as they may develop the disease the vaccine is meant to protect against.
 
One dose of a live vaccine usually produces immunity and long-lasting protection because the vaccine stimulates an immune response that is almost identical to that produced by natural infection. But because not all individuals respond to the first dose, a second dose is usually recommended. The measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine and varicella (chickenpox) vaccine are examples of live attenuated vaccines.
 

Inactivated/subunit vaccines

Inactivated vaccines are made from a killed germ (or parts of the germ for subunit vaccines) that causes the disease. Since the vaccine does not contain a live germ, there is no growth of the germ in the vaccinated person, and this leads to a weaker immune response compared to live vaccines. Due to the weaker immune response, inactivated/subunit vaccines almost always require more than one dose. In general, the first dose “primes” the immune system, and the second and/or third dose produces a protective immune response. These vaccines are safe even for those with weakened immune systems because the killed germ cannot cause disease.
 
Immunity from these vaccines can decline with time and booster doses are often needed to ensure continued protection. The tetanus, hepatitis B, and pertussis vaccines are examples of inactivated/subunit vaccines.
 

Influenza vaccines

Unlike other vaccines, a dose of the influenza (flu) vaccine is needed every year. That’s because every year, there are different influenza viruses that people can catch. As a result, a new version of the vaccine is created every year to provide the best protection against the current influenza viruses. Most people need one yearly dose of influenza vaccine, but children under 9 years of age who have never had an influenza vaccine need two doses.
 
There are live and inactivated versions of the influenza vaccine. The inactivated version (given as an injection) is safe for people with weakened immune systems.
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If my child missed getting a vaccine, do they need to start the series over again?

No. If your child missed a dose of vaccine, they do not need to start the whole series over again. Your child can pick up where they left off, regardless of the time that has passed between doses. However, it is best to follow the recommended schedule as closely as possible. This ensures your child is protected as soon as possible. 

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I can't remember if my child got a vaccine and have no record. Is it safe to repeat vaccines?

Yes. Getting an extra dose of vaccine when an immunization history is unknown is not harmful. It is better to ensure protection by getting the vaccine than risk leaving your child unprotected.

You may be able to locate your child’s record if you have lost it. Find tips on locating vaccination records.
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I didn't immunize my child but have changed my mind. Is it too late to catch up?

For most vaccines, it’s never too late to catch up. There is a catch-up schedule that health care providers use to ensure children are protected as soon as possible.

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Where can my infant or young child get vaccinated?
Your infant or young child can get vaccinated at your local *health unit. Public health nurses give vaccines at health units. Some family doctors and nurse practitioners also give vaccines. 
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
 
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My child is starting kindergarten. Where can they get their kindergarten vaccines?
Your child can get vaccinated at your local *health unit. Public health nurses give vaccines at health units. Some family doctors and nurse practitioners also give vaccines.
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
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Where do school-age children and teens get vaccines?
School-age children and teens are offered routine vaccines at clinics held at their school. These vaccines are provided for free by public health nurses.
 
Those who miss getting vaccinated at school, who don’t feel comfortable getting vaccinated at school, or who are homeschooled can contact their local *health unit, doctor’s office or pharmacy to make an appointment to get vaccinated for free.
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
 
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My child is homeschooled. Where can they get vaccinated?
Children who are homeschooled can get vaccinated at their local *health unit. Some doctors also provide vaccines. Children 5 years of age and older can also get vaccines at pharmacies. 
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
 
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My child is afraid of needles. Are there options for them to get vaccinated other than at school?
Children who don’t feel comfortable getting vaccinated at school or would like extra support can get vaccinated at their local *health unit. Some family doctors also provide vaccines. 
 
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
 
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Where can adults get vaccinated?
Adults can get publicly-funded vaccines (vaccines that are free) from their local *health unit, most pharmacies, and some doctors’ offices. Services vary throughout BC. For example, in some areas health units do not provide adult vaccinations. 
 
Non-publicly-funded vaccines can be bought at most pharmacies and travel clinics. 
 
You can find out which vaccines are free and which vaccines you need to buy in our Vaccines Recommended for Adults in BC handout. 
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
 
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Do I need an appointment at a pharmacy to get vaccinated, or can I just walk in?

Appointments are usually needed to get vaccinated; however, some pharmacies provide vaccines on a walk-in basis. It’s best to give your local pharmacy a call to find out.

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Where can I get the ShingrixⓇ vaccine?
You can buy the shingrix vaccine at some pharmacies and travel clinics. It costs about $150/dose. It’s best to call ahead to ask about vaccine availability. 
 
Some health insurance plans may pay for the cost of the vaccine. Check with your insurance provider. If you are covered by First Nations Health Benefits, please go here.
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Where can I get the HPV vaccine? I am not eligible for the free one.

Anyone who is not eligible for a free HPV vaccine can buy it at most pharmacies and travel clinics. Options for Sexual Health clinics also provide the HPV vaccine in some communities. Find an Options for Sexual Health clinic near you. 

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We have just moved here and I don’t have MSP coverage or a care card for my children. Is there somewhere they can get vaccinated for free?
Your children can get vaccines that are routinely recommended for children in BC for free at your local *health unit. MSP coverage or a care card is not needed. 
 
 
*Health units are also called public health units, community health centres, or primary care homes in some areas of BC. 
 
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How long do I need to wait to get pregnant after receiving the HPV vaccine? What if I got the HPV vaccine before I knew I was already pregnant?

There is no recommended length of time to wait before getting pregnant after receiving the HPV vaccine.
 
The HPV vaccines are not recommended for use in pregnancy because the safety of the vaccines in pregnancy has not been well studied. However, if a pregnant person happens to receive the HPV vaccine, it’s important to know that the vaccine has not been shown to cause any harm to you or the baby. You can finish the series when you are no longer pregnant. The HPV vaccine may be given to breastfeeding women.

If you are planning a pregnancy, it’s recommended that you talk to your health care provider about which vaccines you may need before, during and after pregnancy. Find more information in our pregnancy section.
 
 

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When I got the MMR vaccine I was told to wait four weeks after vaccination before getting pregnant. I became pregnant within 4 weeks of getting the MMR vaccine. Should I be worried?

It’s best to wait at least four weeks after getting an MMR vaccine before getting pregnant because live vaccines like measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) should generally not be given during pregnancy. They have not been proven to be safe for pregnant people and their babies. There is a theoretical risk to the fetus (baby) when the pregnant person receives a live virus vaccine, however, if you received the MMR vaccine before realizing you were pregnant don’t worry too much. Although getting the MMR vaccine during pregnancy is not recommended as a matter of caution, the risks to you and your baby are low and are not a reason to end your pregnancy. If you have further questions, we recommend you speak to your pregnancy care provider.
 

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Are human fetal cells used to make vaccines?
Are human fetal cells used to make vaccines? 
 
Some vaccines are made by growing the vaccine viruses in human fetal cell lines. However, the vaccines themselves do not contain fetal cells or tissue. The purification process removes nearly all the cell components so that only trace amounts of DNA and protein may be found in the vaccine. 
Fetal cell lines are used to test and develop many common over-the-counter and prescribed medications, including antacids and cold medications.
 
Why are fetal cell lines used?
 
Fetal cell lines are used with some vaccines because viruses need to be grown in cells, and human cells are often better than animal cells at supporting the growth of human viruses. Vaccine manufacturers may use these fetal cell lines during the following two phases:  
 
  • Research and development 
  • Production and manufacturing  
Fetal cell lines are used in scientific and medical research and in the research and development of most medical products available today.
 
What are fetal cell lines?
 
Fetal cell lines are cells that are grown in a laboratory. They descend from cells taken from fetuses aborted in the 1970s and 1980s that have since multiplied into many new cells over the past four or five decades, creating the fetal cell lines. The fetuses were not aborted to make vaccines. Current fetal cell lines are thousands of generations removed from the original fetal tissue. They do not contain any tissue from a fetus. 
 
What vaccines used in Canada are made by growing the vaccine viruses in fetal cells?
 
  • Varicella (chickenpox) vaccines
  • Hepatitis A vaccines (including TwinrixⓇ) and the travel vaccine VivaximⓇ, which protects against typhoid and hepatitis A)
  • Rubella vaccines (given as measles, mumps, rubella and measles, mumps, rubella, varicella)
  • One rabies vaccine (ImovaxⓇ Rabies)
  • One shingles vaccine (ZostavaxⓇ II)
There are two COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in Canada that are made using fetal cells: the AstraZeneca (VaxzevriaTM) vaccine and the Johnson & Johnson (JanssenTM) vaccine. Although fetal cells are not used to make the Moderna (SpikevaxTM) and Pfizer-BioNTech (ComirnatyTM) COVID-19 vaccines, they were used in the very early stages of development of these vaccines to test 'proof of concept’ (to test that the vaccines could work). Find more information on fetal cells and COVID-19 vaccines. 
 
What does the Catholic church say about the use of fetal cell lines in vaccines?
 
The Vatican's Pontifical Academy for Life declared in 2005 and reaffirmed in 2017 that in the absence of alternatives, Catholics could, in good conscience, receive vaccines made using historical human fetal cell lines. In December 2020, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith provided a note on the morality of using some anti-COVID-19 vaccines.
 
 
Where can I find more information?
 
 
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I am a First Nations Elder over 65 years of age. How can I get the shingles vaccine?

As of February​ 1, 2021,  Shingrix® vaccine coverage is available at no cost to First Nations Elders who are 65 years old and older. The Shingrix® vaccine can be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner, or from the pharmacist. If you have questions, talk to your community health nurse or go to the FNHA website.

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I have a weak immune system, is it safe for me to get the shingles vaccine?

The shingles vaccines are very safe and Shingrix® is recommended for adults 50 years of age and older. If you have concerns about your current health conditions or if you have a weakened immune system, you should discuss getting the vaccine with your healthcare provider. People with weakened immune systems may be more likely to have shingles more than once or complications from the disease. Your health care provider will discuss your health and the benefits and risks of getting vaccinated. 

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I have had shingles disease. Do I still need to get the vaccine? How long should I wait between having shingles disease and getting the vaccine?

The antibodies created after having shingles infection decrease over time; your chances of getting shingles increase as you get older. Having shingles disease once doesn’t protect you from ever having it again. After causing shingles, the herpes zoster virus goes back to sleep inside your nerves; it can still flare up again and cause another outbreak of shingles. The shingles vaccine is recommended one year after having a case of shingles to give longer-lasting protection against the disease and nerve pain. Read more about shingles. 

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What are common side effects after the shingles vaccine and how long do they last? How do I report a serious or unexpected vaccine reaction?
The Shingrix® vaccine is very safe. Common side effects of the shingles vaccines include headache and soreness, redness and swelling at the injection site. Other reactions that may occur after getting Shingrix® include fever, muscle soreness, fatigue, shivering, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. According to the Canadian Immunization Guide, these reactions have been temporary, lasting 2-3 days in studies (clinical trials). You can take acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol®) or ibuprofen* (e.g. Advil®) to help with fever or soreness after vaccination. Want to speak with a nurse about your vaccine side effects? Call HealthLinkBC at 811 anytime.
 
Reporting potential adverse events following immunization is a part of Canada's vaccine safety monitoring process. Contact the healthcare professional that provided the vaccine directly to make a report. If you don't know who provided the vaccine, you can contact your health unit and ask to speak with a nurse. Our BC health unit finder is here.
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At what age should you get the shingles vaccine? What if I am under 50 years of age and already had shingles disease?
The recommended and minimum age for Shingrix® vaccine is adults 50 years of age and older, because a person's risk of shingles increases as they get older. Over two-thirds of shingles cases occur in individuals over 50 years of age. It is important to have strong protection against shingles in your older years. The recommended for adults 50 years of age and older includes those who:
 
  • had shingles disease
  • received Zostavax® II
  • are not sure if they had chickenpox (varicella) infection
The safety and efficacy of the vaccine have not been tested in people younger than 50. If you are concerned about your health and risk of shingles, please speak with your healthcare provider. You will find more information about the shingles vaccine here.
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I had shingles disease and now have post-herpetic neuralgia. Should I get the shingles vaccine?

Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) happens in one out of five people who get shingles. Those with PHN have severe nerve pain that lasts months to years after the rash has cleared. There should be at least one year between an episode of shingles and the administration of Shingrix®. There is no evidence that the Shingrix® vaccine will have a therapeutic effect for a person with existing zoster (shingles) or post-herpetic neuralgia. Please check with your health care provider regarding the best time for you to receive Shingrix®.

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It's been more than six months since my first dose of Shingrix®. Is it too late to get the second shot? Do I have to restart my vaccine series?
When more than six months have passed since your first Shingrix® vaccination, you should get the second dose as soon as possible. You do not need to restart the vaccine series—two doses of Shingrix® ensure optimal protection.  
 
Find more information about shingles vaccination here.
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What are the ingredients in the Shingles vaccines? Are there any blood fractions, cells, or anything to do with blood products used in the shingles vaccine?

The Canadian Immunization Guide provides a list of ingredients for all approved vaccines in Canada. The product monograph includes vaccine ingredients and is available through Health Canada's Drug Product Database. The shingles vaccines do not contain human or animal cells or tissues. Read more about vaccine ingredients here.

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I have shingles and want to visit my friends and family. Can I spread shingles or chickenpox to other people? What if my grandchildren haven't had chickenpox disease or their chickenpox vaccinations?
Shingles cannot spread from one person to another. However, the virus that causes shingles (varicella-zoster virus) can spread from a person with active shingles to someone who is not immune to chickenpox (most people have had a chickenpox infection or vaccinated against chickenpox).
 
A person with active shingles can spread the virus through direct contact with fluid from the rash blisters. Shingles are less contagious than chickenpox, and the risk of a person with shingles spreading the virus is low if the rash is covered. Once the rash has developed crusts, the person is no longer infectious. If you have shingles, you should:
 
  • Cover the rash, avoid touching or scratching the rash and wash your hands often to prevent the spread of the virus.
  • Avoid close contact with people until the rash blisters heal (develop crusts).
  • It is essential to avoid contact with people at higher risk from chickenpox infection. Higher risk groups include pregnant women, infants, children, or anyone who has never had chickenpox; anyone who is currently ill; anyone with a weak immune system that cannot fight infection (such as someone with HIV infection or diabetes).
If you have other concerns about your health, speak with your primary care provider or call 811 to speak with a nurse. 
 
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If I had a Zostavax® II vaccine, would I need the Shingrix® vaccine? Where do I find a clinic?
Shingrix® is recommended for persons 50 years of age and older to prevent shingles, including those vaccinated with the live zoster vaccine (Zostavax® II). Wait one year between your dose of Zostavax® II and Shingrix®. Search for clinics offering shingles vaccination on the Vaccines411 website.
 
Read more about shingles and the vaccines here.
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Do I need a doctor's note to get the shingles vaccine in BC? How much does the vaccine cost? Why aren't shingles vaccines free?
You do not need a doctor's note to get a shingles vaccine and you can buy it at most pharmacies and travel clinics.
 
  • Shingrix® is a series of two doses and costs about $150/dose.
  • Zostavax® II is given as one dose and costs about $200.
  • Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of the vaccine; check with your provider.

If you buy the vaccine at a travel clinic, a doctor or nurse on-site will be able to vaccinate you. Most pharmacists in B.C. give vaccines. If you want your doctor to vaccinate you, find out if they have a supply of the shingles vaccine. Search for clinics offering shingles vaccination on the Vaccines411 website. Click here to read about why all vaccines in B.C. are not free.

 
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If an adult has not had chickenpox disease or vaccination, should they get the shingles vaccine or the chickenpox vaccine?
Nearly all Canadians 50 years of age and older have had a prior chickenpox infection. Adults eligible for the shingles vaccine can receive it, even if they do not remember having had chickenpox (varicella) disease. Before shingles vaccination, do not get a blood test for chickenpox disease history. Learn more about the shingles vaccines here.
 
In the rare case that an adult over 50 years of age has a blood test that shows they are not immune to varicella (chickenpox), they should be vaccinated with two doses of varicella vaccine (not the shingles vaccine). If you have more questions, please speak with your healthcare provider. 
 
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If I had the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine, can I still get shingles later in life?
Yes, it is possible for people who had chickenpox vaccination to get shingles later in life because the same virus that causes chickenpox disease (the varicella-zoster virus) causes shingles. However, people who get the chickenpox vaccine are less likely to have shingles later in life than people who have had chickenpox disease. 
 
Learn more about the shingles vaccines here.
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Where can I find a list of the ingredients in each vaccine?
 
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What ingredients are in vaccines?
Vaccines contain antigens (killed, weakened (attenuated), or synthetically manufactured versions of the disease-causing germ or parts of the germ) and small amounts of other ingredients, such as aluminum, gelatin, antibiotics, and mercury. 
 
All ingredients serve a specific purpose in either making the vaccine or making sure that the vaccine is safe and effective (works well). All of these ingredients are safe in the amounts used in vaccines. 
 
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Can the ingredients in vaccines cause harm?
The ingredients in vaccines are safe in the amounts used. You may have heard or read that some vaccine ingredients are harmful, but this is true only at much higher amounts than those found in vaccines. Any substance, even water, can be harmful at a high dose. 
 
The ingredients in vaccines have not been proven to cause harm (disease or illness) in the small amounts used in vaccines.
 
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Do vaccines contain mercury?
Almost all childhood vaccines DO NOT contain mercury. However, some influenza (flu) vaccines that have more than one dose in the vial (multi-dose vials) contain thimerosal, which is a mercury-based preservative. The small amount of thimerosal used to preserve vaccines is safe. 
 
  • Preservatives prevent germs (bacteria and fungus) from growing in the vial after the first dose has been removed.
  • In the body, thimerosal is broken down into ethylmercury and thiosalicylate. Ethylmercury is different from methylmercury, the type of mercury found in the environment that can cause mercury poisoning.
  • Ethylmercury is broken down and leaves the body much more quickly than methylmercury and is much less likely to build up in the body and cause harm. It has a half-life of seven days compared to 50 days for methylmercury. Half life means the amount of time it takes for half of the initial amount to break down.
  • Studies have shown that thimerosal, at the levels found in vaccines, is easily eliminated from the body and does not cause neurological problems.
  • In Canada, thimerosal is used only in some influenza vaccines provided in multi-dose vials. The amount of thimerosal is not greater than 50 µg per 0.5 mL dose. Thimerosal has not been included in any routine childhood vaccines produced since 2001. It was removed as a precautionary measure to maintain public confidence in vaccines, not because there was evidence that thimerosal in vaccines was dangerous.
  • The evidence is clear that thimerosal in vaccines does not cause autism.
  • A very small proportion of the population has a severe allergy (hypersensitivity) to thimerosal. For these people, thimerosal-containing vaccines should not be used; instead, single-dose formulations that are thimerosal-free are offered.
  • The amount of mercury in a thimerosal-containing influenza vaccine is not more than 25 µg/dose. This is about the same amount as is found in a six-ounce can of Canadian albacore tuna, which has no serving limits and is considered safe to eat.
 
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Do vaccines contain aluminum?
Yes, many vaccines contain aluminum. Aluminum is used in vaccines as an adjuvant. 
 
  • Adjuvants enhance the immune response (help the vaccine work better) so that fewer amounts of active ingredients and fewer doses of vaccine are needed.
  • The amount of aluminum in vaccines is extremely small and does not pose a health risk.
  • Aluminum-containing adjuvants have been used safely in vaccines since the 1930s.
  • Because large quantities of aluminum can cause serious neurologic effects in humans, Health Canada regulates the amount of aluminum that can be in vaccines. Health Canada follows standards set by the World Health Organization and allows for no more than 1.25 mg/dose as a safe level in vaccines.
  • Aluminum is one of the most plentiful elements and is in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and many health products.
  • Infants receive more aluminum from their diet in the first six months of life than from vaccines. Infants quickly remove aluminum from their bodies without harmful effects. The ability of the body to remove aluminum accounts for its excellent record of safety. About half of the aluminum from vaccines is eliminated from the body in less than 24 hours, and more than three-quarters is eliminated within two weeks.
  • For aluminum to be harmful, people must have kidneys that don’t work well or at all, and they must receive large amounts of aluminum for months or years.
 
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My child is allergic to a vaccine ingredient. What should I do? Can they still get the vaccine?

If your child has an allergy to an ingredient in vaccines, talk with your doctor or public health nurse about getting vaccinated. Your doctor or nurse will ask you some questions and decide if it is safe for your child to get vaccinated. 

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What is a vaccination record?

Vaccination records (sometimes called immunization records) provide a history (list) of all the vaccines you or your child have received.

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I am an international student. Do I qualify for publicly funded (free) vaccines in the BC immunization schedule? Do I need to have MSP to qualify?

International students (post secondary) who are in BC for a period of 6 months or more qualify for the publicly funded (free) vaccines in the immunization schedule. Find the BC immunization schedules for all ages here. 

 

A BC Services card number (also called a card card or proof of MSP enrollment) is not required to make an immunization appointment at a local health unit. Contact your local health unit to book an immunization appointment here. Immunization appointments at a pharmacy or doctor’s office do require a BC Services card number to offer publicly funded vaccines in the BC immunization schedule.

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I am an international student, can I get vaccines if I don’t have my immunization records? Can I get the annual influenza vaccine (flu shot) and the HPV vaccine for free?

International students (post secondary) who are here for a period of 6 months or more qualify for the publicly funded (free) vaccines in the immunization schedule. Find the BC immunization schedules for all ages here. If you don’t have your immunization records, your health care provider will decide which vaccines to offer based on your age, health, the BC immunization schedule and other factors. Review our tips for locating immunization records here. 

A BC Services card number (also called a card card or proof of MSP enrollment) is not required to make an immunization appointment at a local health unit. Contact your local health unit to book an immunization appointment here. Immunization appointments at a pharmacy or doctor’s office do require a BC Services card number to offer publicly funded vaccines. Depending on your age, health and other risk factors, you may be eligible for the annual influenza vaccine (flu shot) or HPV vaccine series. Read more about who qualifies for the free flu shot here. Read about who qualifies for a free HPV vaccine series here. 

 

If you don’t qualify for the publicly funded (free) vaccines, you may be able to purchase them at travel clinics, pharmacies and some doctors’ offices. 

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I am moving to Canada with a study or work permit. Do I have to pay for vaccines?

Please read our People new to BC section to help you with this process.

 

Some holders of study and/or work permits valid for a period of six months or more (including post-secondary international students) may be considered to be BC residents, and they are eligible for publicly funded (free) vaccines. You can find BC’s immunization schedules for adults here.

 

Some vaccines that are recommended for adults are free for BC residents, and some you need to buy.

 

If you don’t have health insurance under BC’s Medical Service Plan (MSP), you may have to pay for vaccines given at a doctor’s office or pharmacy. You will not have to pay at your local health unit.

 

Adults who are not BC residents can pay to be vaccinated at some doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and travel clinics in BC.

 

 

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COVID-19 vaccine booster doses (general)

I recently had COVID-19. How long should I wait for my booster dose?
If you've recently had a positive COVID-19 test result, you can wait up to 6 months for a booster dose. The likelihood of reinfection is low in this time after infection.  The immune response is higher when there is more time between infection and vaccine.
 
Both vaccination and COVID-19 infection provide immunity. Vaccination is safer because it does not cause serious illness like COVID-19 does. Vaccines are highly effective in preventing serious illness and death, even after you have had a COVID-19 infection. 
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Can I get one of the original mRNA COVID-19 vaccines instead of a bivalent vaccine for my booster dose?

Although a booster dose of an original COVID-19 mRNA vaccine appears to restore protection against severe disease and death against the currently circulating variants, a bivalent vaccine is recommended for the booster dose for those 5 years of age and older. This is because the bivalent vaccine is expected to provide better protection. If you prefer to get one of the original COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, this is an option. You can make this request at the clinic.

 

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What vaccine will I be offered for my booster?

You will be offered a COVID-19 mRNA bivalent vaccine.  mRNA vaccines are the best choice for a booster dose because they are expected to provide the most effective protection against COVID-19.

If you're 18 years or older and would prefer a non-mRNA vaccine, you can get the Novavax vaccine or Johnson & Johnson vaccine.‎
 

 
 
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Questions about vaccine schedules

How are vaccine schedules made?
Before a vaccine is added to the routine schedule, it must first be approved for use by Health Canada.  Once a vaccine has been approved for use, recommendations on how to use the vaccine are then made by Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI). This committee is made up of experts in the fields of pediatrics, infectious diseases, immunology, medical microbiology, and public health. NACI makes recommendations for who should receive certain vaccines based on the burden of illness in Canada, as well as evidence about the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Their recommendations are published here.
 
The ministries of health in each of the provinces and territories then use these recommendations from NACI to develop their vaccine schedules. They also consider all the latest vaccine evidence. Evidence can come from different trustworthy sources. Provinces and territories make decisions based on the evidence and data available, adapting as evidence evolves.
 
Decisions by provinces and territories on vaccination are aimed at achieving the maximum protection for populations living in their region. When making these decisions, provinces and territories consider their unique situations, which include:
  • at-risk populations (people who are more likely to experience negative health outcomes from the disease)
  • vaccine supply
  • transmission rates (spread of the disease) in communities
  • access in different communities and regions (urban vs. rural communities, who is offering the vaccine etc.)
  • the ability to prepare their health systems and health professionals for vaccination as it relates to: storing, delivering, allocating, distributing, administering, monitoring and reporting.
 
 
 
 
 
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Bivalent COVID-19 vaccines (general)

Is one COVID-19 bivalent vaccine better than the other?

There is no evidence that one bivalent vaccine is better than another. Both Moderna bivalent and Pfizer bivalent vaccines are expected to provide better protection against Omicron subvariants than the original COVID-19 vaccines. Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends people get either bivalent vaccine as their booster dose.
 

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Can I get a bivalent vaccine for my primary series (1st or 2nd dose)?

‎No. People who have not completed a primary series of COVID-19 vaccine should receive a primary series with one of the original COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Currently, there are no data available on the use of the bivalent vaccines for the primary series.

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Getting the COVID-19 vaccine (general)

I'm visiting BC from another province. Can I get a COVID-19 booster while I am here?

You will need to contact BC's provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 for information on getting the COVID-19 vaccine while visiting BC. 

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My children and I were immunized outside of BC or Canada. What should we do? Are our vaccines valid?
If you received the COVID-19 vaccine outside BC:
 
Even if you have been vaccinated against COVID-19 outside Canada, you may still need to receive vaccinations here. BC is following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) approved COVID-19 vaccines list to decide whether or not it is recommended that you receive additional COVID-19 vaccination. Find more information on vaccine registration and eligibility by clicking here. 
 
 
 
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COVID-19 vaccine schedules & timing (general)

Can COVID-19 vaccines be given at the same time as other vaccines?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same time as other vaccines. 
 
There is currently limited data on giving COVID-19 vaccines at the same time as other vaccines. However, experience with other (non-COVID-19) vaccines has shown that immune responses and side effects are generally similar whether vaccines are given at the same time as other vaccines or on their own.
 
Recent studies have looked at people who received the COVID-19 vaccine and influenza vaccine at the same time. These studies found no safety concerns and showed similar immune responses between people who received the vaccines at the same time and those who received them separately.
 
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccines is safe, means fewer vaccine appointments, and ensures you or your child are protected sooner.
 
 
 
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Who should get a three-dose primary series?
People who are moderately to severely immunocompromised should receive a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary series. These people may not develop a strong enough immune response with only two doses of vaccine. They need three doses to achieve the level of protection that most people get with two doses.
 
 
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COVID-19 vaccination records (general)

How can I get a record of my COVID-19 vaccinations?

There are several ways to get a record of your COVID-19 vaccinations:

 
Online
 
  • You can access your COVID-19 vaccination record online through Health Gateway.
Over the phone / by mail:
 
  • If you can’t access your vaccination record online, you can call 1-833-838-2323 to request a paper copy be mailed to you. It usually takes about 2-3 business days to receive it.
In person at a Service BC office:
 
If your COVID-19 vaccination record is not correct in the BC Health Gateway system, you can enter corrections for your COVID-19 immunization record on the Submit or update a COVID-19 immunization record webpage.
 
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Safety of COVID-19 vaccines (general)

How were COVID-19 vaccines developed and approved so quickly? How do we know they are safe?
The development of COVID-19 vaccines happened quickly for many reasons, including:
 
  • Advances in science and technology.
  • International collaboration among scientists, researchers, health professionals, industry, and governments.
  • Increased dedicated funding.
No clinical trial phases or safety steps were skipped in the development and approval of COVID-19 vaccines and all steps were taken to ensure their safety and effectiveness. 
 
What was different for COVID-19 vaccines was that:
 
  • The three phases of clinical trials overlapped to speed up the process (normally the phases are performed one at a time). 
  • Health Canada used a fast-tracked process that allowed:
    • vaccine manufacturers to submit data as it became available
    • experts to start the review process right away 
Health Canada only approves a vaccine if it is safe, it works, it meets manufacturing standards, and the benefits outweigh the risks.
 
 
 
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Are the spike proteins generated by the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines harmful?
There is no evidence that vaccine-generated spike proteins are harmful. 
 
  • The mRNA vaccines work by teaching our cells how to make a harmless spike protein that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. The body then makes antibodies to help you fight infection if the COVID-19 virus enters your body.
  • Some people are concerned that the spike proteins generated by COVID-19 vaccines can cause harm to the body’s organs or tissues. However, there is no evidence that the vaccine-generated spike proteins cause harm. 
  • COVID-19 infection, however, can damage many organs and tissues. It is important to focus on the right risk.
  • The vaccine-generated spike proteins don't last long in the body; the immune system quickly identifies, attacks, and destroys them.
  • Scientists estimate that the spike proteins, like other proteins our bodies create, may stay in the body for up to a few weeks.
Want to know more about this?
 
 
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Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine if I use marijuana/cannabis? Does it matter if it is edibles, smoked, etc.?
Yes, people who use any type of marijuana or cannabis can safely receive the COVID-19 vaccine. 
 
However, when it’s time for your appointment, we recommend that you not be high. This is not because of a vaccine safety concern (that marijuana interferes with the vaccine) but because the healthcare provider needs your informed consent before giving vaccines. Marijuana may impair (lessen) your ability to fully understand the health information and to ask questions.
 
There is emerging evidence suggesting that smoking can have negative consequences on a person's respiratory system and immune competence, so it’s even more important to get a COVID-19 vaccine to protect yourself from the virus if you smoke.
 
ImmunizeBC does not have specific recommendations around cannabis use after any vaccine, including the COVID-19 vaccines. This is because there are no studies around cannabis use and the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines. 
 
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COVID-19 vaccine side effects (general)

How do I report a serious reaction to a COVID-19 vaccine?
Please report any adverse events (serious or unexpected reactions following vaccination) to the health care provider who gave you the vaccine. You can also report an adverse event to your health care provider, or you can call your local health unit to report it.  Health care providers are trained to report these events to the correct channels to monitor vaccine safety. 
 
If you have questions about side effects or a possible reaction to the vaccine, contact HealthLinkBC by calling 8-1-1.
 
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Are there long-term side effects caused by mRNA COVID-19 vaccines?
The medical and scientific community is confident in the long-term safety of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for several reasons:
 
  • The history of vaccines shows that delayed effects after vaccination can happen. But when they do, these effects tend to happen within six weeks of receiving a vaccine. This is why regulators in Canada and many other countries require at least eight weeks of safety data before approving a vaccine. 
  • The mRNA vaccines have been in development for many years and have been studied before for flu, Zika, rabies, and cytomegalovirus (CMV). In addition, cancer research has used mRNA to trigger the immune system to target specific cancer cells. Decades of studying mRNA vaccines have shown no long-term side effects.
  • Canada’s vaccine safety system has proven time and again that the data necessary to get through the approval process is sufficient to prove safety, even for the long term. The end data and safety tests for the mRNA vaccines met the same standards as other vaccines that have been approved in Canada.
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COVID-19 vaccine ingredients (general)

Where can I find a list of the ingredients in the COVID-19 vaccines currently approved for use in Canada?
Health Canada lists all COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in Canada. Click on the vaccine name and you will be taken to a page that lists the ingredients in that vaccine. 
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Are there any animal products (including pork) in the mRNA or viral vector vaccines COVID-19 vaccines?

Animal and human cell cultures may be used in the process of making mRNA or viral vector COVID-19 vaccines, but the vaccines do not contain animal or human cells or tissue. The purification process removes nearly all of the cell components so that only trace amounts of DNA and protein may be present in the vaccine. 

  • In this video, Dr. Ayesha Raza, Family Physician and Women’s Health Specialist at the Centre Francophone de Toronto, explains that the COVID-19 vaccines authorized in Canada do not contain pork or pork products. 
  • In this video, Dr. Ayesha Raza, Family Physician and Women’s Health Specialist at the Centre Francophone de Toronto, explains that, yes, COVID-19 vaccines are considered Halal. 

 

 

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Are there blood products in any of the COVID-19 vaccines?
Human blood products are not typically found in vaccines. The exceptions to this are two rabies vaccines (Imovax® Rabies and RabAvert®) that contain albumin derived from human blood. There are no blood products in the COVID-19 vaccines that are currently approved in Canada. This could change if more vaccines with different ingredients are approved; for an up-to-date list of ingredients in vaccines, click on the vaccine name on Health Canada's Approved COVID-19 Vaccines page. 
 
Regarding other vaccines: animal and human cell cultures may be used in the process of making certain vaccines, but the vaccines do not contain animal or human cells or tissue. 
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Do COVID-19 vaccines contain fetal cells? Were abortions performed to make the vaccines?
Vaccines do not contain fetal cells, and no abortions are performed to make vaccines. This includes COVID-19 vaccines. 
 
Some vaccines are made by growing the vaccine viruses in human fetal cell lines. However, the vaccines themselves do not contain fetal cells or tissue. The purification process removes nearly all the cell components so that only trace amounts of DNA and protein may be present in the vaccine. 
 
Fetal cell lines are used to test and develop many common over-the-counter and prescribed medications, including antacids and cold medications.
 
Are COVID-19 vaccines made using fetal cell lines?
 
  • Fetal cell lines were used to make the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine and the AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria) vaccine. However, the vaccines themselves do not contain fetal cells or tissue. The purification process removes nearly all the cell components so that only trace amounts of DNA and protein may be present in the vaccine. 
  • Fetal cell lines were not used to make the Moderna (Spikevax) and Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. However, the cell lines were used in the very early stages of research and development of these vaccines to test 'proof of concept’ (to test that the vaccines could work).
What fetal cell lines are used? 
 
  • The AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria) vaccine uses the HEK 293 fetal cell line, and the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine uses the PER.C6 fetal cell line. However, the vaccines themselves do not contain fetal cells or tissue. The purification process removes nearly all the cell components so that only trace amounts of DNA and protein may be present in the vaccine. 
  • The Moderna (Spikevax) and Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) COVID-19 vaccines used the fetal cell line HEK 293 in the very early stages of research and development. It was not used to make these vaccines. 
  • The HEK 293 and PER.C6 fetal cell lines descend from cells taken from fetuses aborted in the 1970s and 1980s. The fetuses were not aborted to make vaccines.
Why are fetal cell lines used?
 

Fetal cell lines are used with some vaccines because viruses need to be grown in cells and human cells are often better than animal cells at supporting the growth of human viruses. 

Vaccine manufacturers may use these fetal cell lines during the following two phases:  
 
  • Research and development 
  • Production and manufacturing  
Fetal cell lines are used in scientific and medical research and in the research and development of most medical products available today.
 
What are fetal cell lines?
 
Fetal cell lines are cells that are grown in a laboratory. They descend from cells taken from fetuses aborted in the 1970s and 1980s that have since multiplied into many new cells over the past four or five decades, creating the fetal cell lines. The fetuses were not aborted to make vaccines. Current fetal cell lines are thousands of generations removed from the original fetal tissue. They do not contain any tissue from a fetus. 
 

What does the Catholic church say about the use of fetal cell lines in vaccines?

The Vatican's Pontifical Academy for Life declared in 2005 and reaffirmed in 2017 that in the absence of alternatives, Catholics could, in good conscience, receive vaccines made using historical human fetal cell lines. In December 2020, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith provided a note on the morality of using some anti-Covid-19 vaccines.
 
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COVID-19 vaccination & pregnancy & breastfeeding (general)

Does the COVID-19 vaccine affect fertility?
Millions of people have received an mRNA vaccine in Canada and around the world. Data has shown no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines cause fertility problems. 
 
COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended for people who are planning a pregnancy. Those intending to become pregnant don't need to delay pregnancy after vaccination with an mRNA vaccine. 

 

 

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Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe for pregnant people, people who are planning a pregnancy, and people who are breastfeeding?
COVID-19 vaccination is safe and recommended for pregnant people, people who are planning a pregnancy, and people who are breastfeeding. 
 
Hundreds of thousands of pregnant or breastfeeding people around the world have safely received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Large studies found no increase in rates of pregnancy loss, preterm birth, or stillbirth.
 
Pregnant people are at higher risk of experiencing severe outcomes from COVID-19, including severe illness, hospitalization, admission to an intensive care unit, and invasive mechanical ventilation. Getting COVID-19 during pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of pregnancy-related complications, including premature birth, low birth weight, and infant admission to a neonatal intensive care unit.
 
COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy helps protect against these serious outcomes for the pregnant person and their baby.
 
 
Pregnant people 12 or older can get a booster dose as early as 3 months after their initial vaccination series. You can be at any stage of your pregnancy. If you haven't received an invite yet, call 1-833-838-2323 and self-identify as pregnant. 
 
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Getting the COVID-19 vaccine (youth)

Does a youth who had COVID-19 still need the vaccine?
People who have had COVID-19 should still get vaccinated. This is because not everyone develops a strong immune response (protection) after having COVID-19. Vaccination is the best way to help develop immunity and provides more reliable protection than COVID-19.
 
Youth can wait 3-6 months from when their symptoms started (or from when they tested positive if they had no symptoms) for their booster dose. Check with your health care provider if you have questions.
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How can I help support a youth who is afraid of needles?
Vaccines can cause some pain, stress, and anxiety for children and youth of all ages. Go to our reducing pain, stress, and anxiety with vaccinations section for tips on how to have a more positive vaccination experience. 
 
You can also contact your local health unit and ask to speak with a public health nurse about supports available in your area. 
 

CARD System

 
You can use the CARD system - Comfort, Ask, Relax, Distract to help your child find their preferred way to prepare for the vaccine.
 
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Risks of COVID-19 infection and benefits of vaccination (youth)

I heard that children and teens don’t transmit the COVID-19 virus to others. So how does my child or teen getting vaccinated help protect others?
Just like adults, children and teens can transmit (spread) COVID-19 to others. 
 
  • Early in the pandemic, children and teens were not often identified as spreaders of COVID-19. However, this was mostly because schools and activities were closed or not held in person.
  • Since things have opened up again, outbreaks among teens at camps, sporting events, and schools show that teens spread COVID-19.
  • Further, studies that looked at the risk of children and teens spreading COVID-19 to others in their households showed that they do spread the virus.
  • Children and teens can spread COVID-19 to others when they do not have symptoms.
Vaccination reduces the risk of children and teens getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. 
 
 
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What are the risks of COVID-19 infection in youth?
While most youth who get COVID-19 have a minor illness, some can get very sick. Children and youth with certain underlying medical conditions have a higher chance of more serious symptoms if they get COVID-19. Infected children and youth are also able to pass on COVID-19 to other people in their families and communities.
 
Youth who get COVID-19: 
 
  • Can get severe lung infection and heart issues like myocarditis from COVID-19.
  • May continue to feel sick weeks or months after the initial illness. This is called Post-COVID-19 condition or “long COVID”. Early studies suggest that "long COVID" is less common in children and young people than adults.
  • Are at risk of developing a serious but rare condition called multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) after COVID-19 infection. MIS-C is caused by an exaggerated immune response, leading to severe widespread inflammation and can appear several weeks after infection. 
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COVID-19 vaccine safety (youth)

Are mRNA COVID-19 vaccines safe for youth?
The Pfizer and Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are safe for youth.  The vaccines were tested in youth in clinical trials. The Pfizer vaccine was tested in youth aged 12 to 15 in clinical trials that included more than 2200 teens. The Moderna vaccine was tested on more than 3700 teens aged 12 to 17. The clinical trials compared the immune response, safety, and effectiveness of the vaccine to a placebo. Health Canada reviewed the data from the clinical trials and approved the vaccines after determining that: 
 
• They are safe.
• They are effective (they work).  
• The benefits of the vaccines outweigh any risks. 
 
Health Canada has an extensive review and approval process for vaccines. This ensures the safety and quality of vaccines. Once a vaccine is approved and begins to be used, its safety is continuously monitored. 
 
Since approval, hundreds of millions of mRNA vaccines have been safely given to people 12 years of age and older worldwide. As of November 2021, over two million youth in Canada and over 250 thousand youth in BC aged 12 to 17 had already received a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
 
Side effects of COVID-19 vaccines are usually mild and go away within a few days. Serious side effects are very rare. 
 
The most common side effects reported by youth are:
 
  • Pain where the shot was given
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Muscle ache
In very rare cases, myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle or lining) can occur. Typically, this condition has been mild to moderate. People have recovered with or without treatment. The chance of getting myocarditis from COVID-19 is much greater than getting it from the vaccine.
 
The medical and scientific community is confident in the long-term safety of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.
 
For more information on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines for youth, read the  Vaccine Safety for Youth handout from the BCCDC. 
 
 
 
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Can mRNA vaccines cause inflammation of the heart?
Rare cases of inflammation of the heart (myocarditis and pericarditis) have been reported after getting the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. In Canada, this has occurred at a rate of about 1.7 cases per 100,000 doses of Moderna vaccine and 1.1 cases per 100,000 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for older children and adults.
 

Cases are seen more often after the second dose and in males 12-29 years of age. The rate of cases in males 18-29 years of age after the second dose are about 5 times higher with the Moderna vaccine compared to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The rate of cases in younger children is much lower. In the US, this occurred at a rate of about 2.7 cases per 1,000,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine in males 5-11 years of age. Rates for children 6 months to less than 5 years of age are unknown at this time. It is expected that cases will be very rare and rates will be lower than the rates for those older than 5 years of age.

Typically, this condition has been mild to moderate. People have recovered with or without treatment. The risk of myocarditis is much greater following COVID-19 infection than following vaccination.
 
 
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Are the spike proteins generated by the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines harmful?
There is no evidence that vaccine-generated spike proteins are harmful. 
 
  • The mRNA vaccines work by teaching our cells how to make a harmless spike protein that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. The body then makes antibodies to help you fight infection if the COVID-19 virus enters your body.
  • Some people are concerned that the spike proteins generated by COVID-19 vaccines can cause harm to the body’s organs or tissues. However, there is no evidence that the vaccine-generated spike proteins cause harm.
  • COVID-19 infection, however, can damage many organs and tissues. It is important to focus on the right risk.
  • The vaccine-generated spike proteins don't last long in the body; the immune system quickly identifies, attacks, and destroys them.
  • Scientists estimate that the spike proteins, like other proteins our bodies create, may stay in the body for up to a few weeks.
Want to know more about this?
 
 
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Are there long-term side effects of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in youth?
The medical and scientific community is confident in the long-term safety of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for several reasons:
 
  • The history of vaccines shows that delayed effects after vaccination can happen. But when they do, these effects tend to happen within six weeks of receiving a vaccine. This is why regulators in Canada and many other countries require at least eight weeks of safety data before approving a vaccine. The vaccines have now been in use for months, with over 2.7 billion doses given worldwide.
     
  • This is not new vaccine technology. The mRNA vaccines have been in development for many years and have been studied before for flu, Zika, rabies, and cytomegalovirus (CMV). In addition, cancer research has used mRNA to trigger the immune system to target specific cancer cells. Years of studying mRNA vaccines has shown no long-term side effects.
     
  • Canada’s vaccine safety system has proven time and again that the data necessary to get through the approval process is sufficient to prove safety, even for the long term. The end data and safety tests for the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines met the same standards as other vaccines that have been approved in Canada. 
When considering long-term risks, a COVID-19 infection is a much more serious concern. 
 
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Can mRNA COVID-19 vaccines alter a person’s DNA?
 
  • Location – mRNA is active in the cytoplasm of a cell, whereas DNA is protected in the cell’s nucleus. The mRNA CANNOT enter the nucleus, so the two nucleic acids are never in the same place in the cell.
     
  • Process – mRNA is not DNA. So, if a person’s DNA were going to be altered, the RNA would have to be made into DNA. This would require a special enzyme that exists only in some viruses. Coronaviruses are not one of them, as they have only single-stranded RNA. This means that when they enter into a cell’s cytoplasm, they don’t need to be translated. Proteins (like the spike protein) can be made directly from the RNA.
     
  • Stability — mRNA is not very stable. Its half-life in human cells is estimated in hours. For purposes of mRNA-based therapies, modifications have been developed to keep the molecule in cells long enough to allow for the therapy to be successful. But even with this, the mRNA will not lead to protein production for more than 10-14 days.
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COVID-19 vaccine & reproductive health (youth)

Can COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility?
Millions of people have received an mRNA vaccine in Canada and around the world. Data has shown no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines cause fertility problems. 
 
In this video, Dr. Paul Offit from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia explains why infertility is not a concern following COVID-19 or receipt of the COVID-19 vaccine.

 

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Informed consent and COVID-19 vaccination (youth)

Can youth provide their own consent for the COVID-19 vaccine?
In general, parental consent for health care in BC is sought for children 12 years of age and younger. However, there is no legal age of consent for health care in BC. Children and youth under 19 years of age can legally consent to or refuse vaccinations on their own behalf if they demonstrate capability. This is called "mature minor consent".
 
"Mature minor consent" is the consent a child or youth gives to receive health care after the child has been assessed by a healthcare provider as having the necessary understanding to give consent. For more information about mature minor consent for vaccines, refer to the HealthLinkBC File: The Infants Act, Mature Minor Consent and Immunization.
 
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Getting the COVID-19 vaccine (children)

My child had COVID-19. Do they still need to get vaccinated?
People who have had COVID-19 should still get vaccinated. This is because not everyone develops a strong immune response (protection) after having COVID-19. Vaccination is the best way to help develop immunity and provides more reliable protection than COVID-19.
 
Children can wait 3-6 months from when their symptoms started (or from when they tested positive if they had no symptoms) for their booster dose. Check with your health care provider if you have questions.
 
 
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How can I help support a child who is afraid of needles?
 
You can also contact your local health unit and ask to speak with a public health nurse about supports available in your area. 

 

CARDTM System

You can also use the CARD system - Comfort, Ask, Relax, Distract to help your child find their preferred way to prepare for the vaccine. Check out the CARD Game for Kids and other activities on Immunize Canada. 
 
 
 
 

Hear from people in B.C.:

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Can children get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccinations?
Yes. The COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same time or any time before or after any other childhood vaccinations including the flu shot.
 

Hear from people in B.C.:

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How can I register my child to get vaccinated?

You can register your child to get vaccinated with the Get Vaccinated System. You can register online or by phone. After you register, you will receive a text, email, or phone call when it's your turn to book a vaccine appointment. 

Hear from people in B.C.:

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How can I explain how the COVID-19 vaccination works to my children?

Explain that the vaccine helps make sure they don’t get sick by quickly fighting off the virus that causes COVID-19. The vaccine is so powerful that it even helps to protect the people around them, including their family and friends. Kids Boost Immunity has videos that explain more. 

Hear from people in B.C.:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Ally (@squishyprints)

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COVID-19 vaccine dose & schedule (children)

Will children aged 5 to 11 get the same dose as youth and adults?

No. Children aged five to 11 will get a smaller dose. The smaller dose works well because children have stronger immune responses than youth and adults. This means they can get a similar level of protection with a smaller dose.  The smaller dose may also mean a lower frequency of common reactions, such as redness and swelling at the injection site.

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Risks of COVID-19 infection & benefits of vaccination (children)

What are the risks of COVID-19 infection in children aged 5 to 11? Isn’t it usually a mild disease in children?
While most children who get COVID-19 have a mild illness, some children can get very sick. The chance of getting very sick is higher for children who are not fully vaccinated or have certain medical conditions.
 
Children who get COVID-19: 
 
  • Can get a severe lung infection and heart issues like myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).
  • Are at risk of developing a serious but rare condition called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). MIS-C is caused by an exaggerated immune response, leading to severe widespread inflammation. It can happen several weeks after infection and usually requires hospitalization. Most children in Canada who have had this condition have fully recovered with treatment. 
  •  May continue to feel sick weeks or months after the initial illness. This is called Post-COVID-19 condition or “long COVID”. Early studies suggest that "long COVID" is less common in children and young people than adults. 
Vaccinating children can also help protect others, including family members and those most at risk. Vaccination can also make it less likely that children will miss out on important activities, like school, sports, and social events.

 

In this video, BC Children’s Hospital Infectious Disease Pediatric Physician Dr. Manish Sadarangani discusses severe COVID-19 infection in children. 

 

 

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I heard that children and teens don’t transmit the COVID-19 virus to others. So how does my child or teen getting vaccinated help protect others?
Just like adults, children and teens can transmit (spread) COVID-19 to others. 
 
  • Early in the pandemic, children and teens were not often identified as spreaders of COVID-19. However, this was mostly because schools and activities were closed or not held in person.
  • Since things have opened up again, outbreaks among teens at camps, sporting events, and schools show that teens spread COVID-19.
  • Further, studies that looked at the risk of children and teens spreading COVID-19 to others in their households showed that they do spread the virus.
  • Children and teens can spread COVID-19 to others when they do not have symptoms.
Vaccination reduces the risk of children and teens getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. 
 
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COVID-19 vaccine safety (children)

Are mRNA COVID-19 vaccines safe for children 5 to 11 years of age?
mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are safe for children 5 - 11 years of age. There is a very strict process to test and approve vaccines in Canada. Health Canada only approves a vaccine if the data from clinical trials show the vaccine is safe and effective and that the vaccine's benefits outweigh any risks. 
 
Clinical trials looked at the immune response, safety, and effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in children.
 
  • The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was tested in children 5 to 11 years of age.
  • The Moderna vaccine was tested in children 6 to 11 years of age.
In the clinical trials:
 
  • No safety issues were detected.
  • The vaccines were shown to provide very good protection against COVID-19 in the 2 months after vaccination.
After a vaccine is approved for use, its safety is continuously monitored. Millions of children have safely received the pediatric Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in Canada and worldwide. The evidence continues to demonstrate that:
 
  • The vaccine is safe.
  • The vaccine is effective against severe outcomes.
  • The vaccine has known and potential risks that can be treated.
  • Serious side effects continue to be very rare.

Very rarely people have experienced myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart) following vaccination with a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine.

  • The rate of cases in younger children is much lower. In the US, this occurred at a rate of about 2.7 cases per 1,000,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine in males 5-11 years of age.
  • Typically, this condition has been mild to moderate. People have recovered with or without treatment.
  • The risk of myocarditis is much greater following COVID-19 infection than following vaccination.

The known risks of COVID-19 illness outweigh the potential risk of having a serious side effect following vaccination. 

Learn more about how vaccine safety is monitored in Canada.

In this video, Dr. Julia Orkin, pediatrician at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto & Medical Lead for the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service, answers the question: How can anyone be sure a vaccine developed so quickly is safe? 

In the video below, BC Children’s Hospital Infectious Disease Pediatric Physician Dr. Manish Sadarangani discusses how mRNA vaccines have been researched for decades. 

 

 

Hear from people in B.C.:

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Can mRNA vaccines cause myocarditis and pericarditis?
Rare cases of inflammation of the heart (myocarditis and pericarditis) have been reported after getting the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. In Canada, this has occurred at a rate of about 1.7 cases per 100,000 doses of Moderna vaccine and 1.1 cases per 100,000 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for older children and adults.
 

Cases are seen more often after the second dose and in males 12-29 years of age. The rate of cases in males 18-29 years of age after the second dose are about 5 times higher with the Moderna vaccine compared to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The rate of cases in younger children is much lower. In the US, this occurred at a rate of about 2.7 cases per 1,000,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine in males 5-11 years of age. Rates for children 6 months to less than 5 years of age are unknown at this time. It is expected that cases will be very rare and rates will be lower than the rates for those older than 5 years of age.

Typically, this condition has been mild to moderate. People have recovered with or without treatment. The risk of myocarditis is much greater following COVID-19 infection than following vaccination.
 
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I heard that the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine has caused serious side effects and death in young children. Is this true?

The two pediatric mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for children 5 to 11 years of age were shown to be safe in clinical trials. We also have real-world data as millions of children have safely received the pediatric Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA Vaccine.  Vaccine safety monitoring shows that:

  • The mRNA pediatric vaccines are safe.
  • Side effects are mostly mild.
  • Serious side effects are rare.
While there have been reports of death in young children following COVID-19 vaccination in the US, there is no evidence that the vaccine caused the deaths. 
 
  • A vaccine’s safety is continuously monitored after approval through the reporting of adverse events (an adverse event is an unexpected medical event that happens after vaccination that may or may not have been caused by the vaccine). 
  • A report of a death or other adverse event following vaccination does not mean that the vaccine caused it.
  • All reports of adverse events are investigated to determine if the event was caused by the vaccine or by something else that happened around the same time the vaccine was given.
  • The reporting of adverse events helps keep vaccines safe and helps ensure that the benefits continue to outweigh any risks. 
  • For a vaccination program to continue, the benefits of the vaccine must outweigh any known or potential risks.

Learn more about how vaccine safety is monitored.

In the video below, BC Children’s Hospital Infectious Disease Pediatric Physician Dr. Manish Sadarangani discusses how there has been no concern around significant adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination in children ages 5-11.

 

 

 
In this video, Dr. Julia Orkin, pediatrician at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto & Medical Lead for the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service, answers the question: What are the most common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine in children?

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Can the spike proteins generated by the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines cause harm?
There is no evidence that vaccine-generated spike proteins are harmful. 
 
  • The mRNA vaccines work by teaching our cells how to make a harmless spike protein that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. The body then makes antibodies to help you fight infection if the COVID-19 virus enters your body.
  • Some people are concerned that the spike proteins generated by COVID-19 vaccines can cause harm to the body’s organs or tissues. However, there is no evidence that the vaccine-generated spike proteins cause harm. 
  • COVID-19 infection, however, can damage many organs and tissues. It is important to focus on the right risk.
  • The vaccine-generated spike proteins don't last long in the body; the immune system quickly identifies, attacks, and destroys them.
  • Scientists estimate that the spike proteins, like other proteins our bodies create, may stay in the body for up to a few weeks.
Want to know more about this?
 
 
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Are there long-term side effects of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in children?
The medical and scientific community is confident in the long-term safety of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for several reasons:
 
  • The history of vaccines shows that delayed effects after vaccination can happen. But when they do, these effects tend to happen within six weeks of receiving a vaccine. This is why regulators in Canada and many other countries require at least eight weeks of safety data before approving a vaccine. The vaccines have now been in use for months, with over 2.7 billion doses given worldwide.
     
  • This is not new vaccine technology. The mRNA vaccines have been in development for many years and have been studied before for flu, Zika, rabies, and cytomegalovirus (CMV). In addition, cancer research has used mRNA to trigger the immune system to target specific cancer cells. Years of studying mRNA vaccines has shown no long-term side effects.
     
  • Canada’s vaccine safety system has proven time and again that the data necessary to get through the approval process is sufficient to prove safety, even for the long term. The end data and safety tests for the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines met the same standards as other vaccines that have been approved in Canada. 
When considering long-term risks, a COVID-19 infection is a much more serious concern. 

Hear from people in B.C.:

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Can mRNA COVID-19 vaccines alter a person’s DNA?
 
  • Location – mRNA is active in the cytoplasm of a cell, whereas DNA is protected in the cell’s nucleus. The mRNA CANNOT enter the nucleus, so the two nucleic acids are never in the same place in the cell.
     
  • Process – mRNA is not DNA. So if a person’s DNA were going to be altered, the RNA would have to be made into DNA. This would require a special enzyme that only exists in some viruses. Coronaviruses are not one of them, as they have only single-stranded RNA, which means that when they enter into a cell’s cytoplasm, they don’t need to be translated. Proteins (like the spike protein) can be made directly from the RNA.
     
  • Stability — mRNA is not very stable. Its half-life in human cells is estimated in hours. For purposes of mRNA-based therapies, modifications have been developed to keep the molecule in cells long enough to allow for the therapy to be successful. But even with this, the mRNA will not lead to protein production for more than 10-14 days.
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COVID-19 vaccine & reproductive health (children)

Can COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility?
Millions of people have received an mRNA vaccine in Canada and around the world. Data has shown no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines cause fertility problems. 
 
In this video, Dr. Julia Orkin, pediatrician at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto & Medical Lead for the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service, answers the question: Can the COVID-19 vaccine affect puberty or fertility in children?
 

In this video, Dr. Paul Offit from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia explains why infertility is not a concern following COVID-19 or receipt of the COVID-19 vaccine.
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Getting the COVID-19 vaccine (children 6 mos - 4 yrs)

Should my young child get vaccinated if they have already had COVID-19?
If your child already had COVID-19 and recovered, they should still get vaccinated. Previous infection provides some protection but studies in adults show that vaccination following infection provides stronger and longer-lasting protection. If your child was recently sick, they can get the vaccine once they are better, or they can delay getting the vaccine until 8 weeks after their symptoms started or they tested positive for COVID-19.
 
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What COVID-19 vaccines are available for children 6 months to 4 years of age?
Health Canada has approved the Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (25 mcg) for children 6 months to 5 years of age and the Pfizer COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (3 mcg) for children 6 months to 4 years of age.
 
In BC, children 6 months to 4 years of age are routinely offered the Moderna vaccine. This is because the Moderna vaccine requires one less dose to complete the primary (initial) series than the Pfizer vaccine, which means children will be protected sooner. The Moderna vaccine is given as a 2-dose series, and the Pfizer vaccine is given as a 3-dose series. 
 
The Pfizer vaccine will not be routinely available at vaccine clinics. If a parent or guardian would like their child to receive the Pfizer vaccine, they can contact the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 to request it.
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Why should my young child get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccination helps keep children safe and is the best way to protect children from severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19. There has been an increase in hospital and ICU admissions in young children since Omicron became the most common variant. 
 
While most children who get COVID-19 have a minor illness, some children (including previously healthy children) can get very sick. The chance of getting very sick is higher for children who are not fully vaccinated or have certain medical conditions.
 
Children who get COVID-19: 
 
  • Can get a severe lung infection and heart issues like myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).
  • Are at risk of developing a serious but rare condition called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). MIS-C is caused by an exaggerated immune response, leading to severe widespread inflammation. It can happen several weeks after infection and usually requires hospitalization. Most children in Canada who have had this condition have fully recovered with treatment. 
  • While the evidence is limited in children younger than 5, COVID-19 infection may lead to post-COVID condition or "long COVID." This is where people feel sick for weeks or months after the initial illness.

Vaccinating children can also help protect others, including family members and those most at risk. Vaccination can also make it less likely that children will miss out on important activities, like daycare, preschool, sports, and social events.

 
 
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How can my young child have a positive vaccination experience?
Vaccines can cause some pain, stress, and anxiety for children of all ages.  Fortunately, there are many strategies that can be used before and during the vaccination appointment that can help make the vaccination experience better for children.
 
 
 
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COVID-19 Vaccine Dose & Schedule (children 6 mos - 4 yrs)

How many doses of COVID-19 vaccine does my child need?
Children 6 months to 4 years of age will get 2 doses of the Moderna vaccine to complete their primary (initial) series. The second dose is offered about 8 weeks after the first. 
 
Children who are moderately to severely immunocompromised need 3 doses to complete their primary series. These children can get their second dose 4 to 8 weeks after the first. To book your child's third dose, you will be contacted by the provincial Get Vaccinated system about 4 weeks after they receive their second dose. 
 
Scientists are still determining if children 6 months to 4 years of age will need a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
 
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What is the COVID-19 vaccine dosage for young children?
Young children get a smaller dose of the same vaccine used for youth and adults. Children aged 6 months to 4 years of age receive a 25 microgram dose of the Moderna vaccine, which is a quarter of the dose adults get.
 
Young children need a smaller dose of the vaccine to get the same protection from COVID-19.
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Can my young child get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccinations?
Yes. The COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same time or any time before or after any other childhood vaccinations, including the influenza (flu) vaccine given by injection or nasal spray.
 
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COVID-19 Vaccine Safety (children 6 mos - 4 yrs)

Are COVID-19 vaccines safe for young children?
Yes, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are safe for young children. Every vaccine goes through intensive testing and must be shown to be safe and effective before it is approved for use and given to children. After a vaccine is approved for use, its safety is continuously monitored. 
 
The COVID-19 mRNA vaccines were shown to be safe for young children in clinical trials, and ongoing safety monitoring continues to show that these vaccines are safe for young children.  
 
Side effects of COVID-19 vaccines are most often mild and last 1-3 days. Serious side effects are very rare. 
 
 
 
 
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Getting the influenza vaccine

I am visiting from another province. Can I get the influenza vaccine for free? How do I do that?
People visiting BC from other provinces are eligible for publicly funded (free) influenza vaccine. Please contact BC's provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323 for information on how to get the influenza (flu) vaccine while visiting BC. If you don’t have health insurance under B.C’s Medical Service Plan (MSP), you may be charged a fee to have the vaccine given at a doctor’s office or pharmacy. You will not be charged this fee at the local health unit clinic.
 
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Where can I get an influenza vaccine?
Influenza vaccines are available at a wide variety of locations across the province including: pharmacies, public health clinics, and some primary care providers' offices.
 
This year, you can book your influenza vaccine through the provincial government's Get Vaccinated system, the same system used to book COVID-19 vaccine appointments. 
 
  • If you've received a dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in BC, you're already registered with the Get Vaccinated system and will automatically receive an invite to book your influenza vaccine.
  • If you are not yet registered, you can register online with the Get Vaccinated system or call 1-833-838-2323. 
  • Invitations to book influenza vaccines are being sent daily. If you haven't received your notification by October 23, contact the provincial call centre at 1-833-838-2323.
  • Booking through the Get Vaccinated system is the most efficient way to access an influenza vaccine; however, walk-in appointments are available at some pharmacies. It's best to call ahead to confirm availability.
  • If you have questions about booking your influenza vaccine appointment, visit the provincial governments Influenza Vaccine page or call 1-833-838-2323
Please note: Pharmacists can vaccinate children who are 4 years of age and older with the inactivated influenza vaccine given by injection and 2 years of age and older with the live-attenuated influenza vaccine given as a nasal spray. 
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Where can I get the influenza (flu) vaccine?
Influenza vaccines are available during the influenza season through public health clinics, pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and travel clinics. Pharmacists can give seasonal influenza injections (shots) to children aged 4 and older, and may offer influenza immunizations by nasal spray to children 2 years and older. Please check your local pharmacy to confirm.
 
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Can I get the influenza vaccine and my COVID-19 booster at the same time?
You can get your influenza vaccine and COVID-19 booster at the same time. This is safe. 
 
This year, most people in BC are eligible for an influenza vaccine and a COVID-19 booster at the same time. 
 
Use the booking link in your email or SMS text to book an appointment to get both vaccines at the same time.
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I am already registered with the Get Vaccinated system for COVID-19 vaccines. Do I need to re-register to get an invite for the influenza (flu) vaccine?

No, people who are already registered with the provincial Get Vaccinated system will not need to re-register to get an invite for the influenza (flu) vaccine.

 
 
 
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Is the influenza vaccine free?
Yes. The vaccine is free in BC for everyone 6 months of age and older. The influenza vaccine is especially important for people who are at high risk of serious illness from influenza (such as young children, pregnant people, the elderly, and people with certain medical conditions), those able to transmit or spread influenza to those at high risk, and people who provide essential community services and those who work with live poultry.  
 
For more information, visit our influenza page. 
 
 
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When are influenza vaccines available in BC?
In BC, influenza (flu) vaccines are usually available in October. 
 
As of October 11th, influenza vaccines are widely available for free in participating pharmacies, health-authority clinics, and some doctors’ offices throughout the province. Influenza vaccines have been available for seniors and other people at higher risk of severe illness or complications from influenza since October 3rd.
 
 
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Is there a mobile clinic that can come to our work location to vaccinate our employees?
A number of organizations, including private health care agencies, pharmacies, and travel clinics, have offered this service in the past. This information can be found online by searching for workplace influenza (flu) vaccine clinics in B.C. or by contacting your local pharmacy or travel clinic. ImmunizeBC does not endorse any one organization, and we recommend that you contact the specific organization for details.
 
 
Your local health unit may have information on who provides this service in your area. 
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Is there a way to get in-home influenza vaccines for those who are housebound?

You can contact your local health unit for this information. Ask to speak to a public health nurse. 

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Can I get the influenza vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?

Influenza vaccines can be safely given at the same time or any time before or after other vaccines.

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Can I get the influenza vaccine the same day as a TB skin test?
The influenza vaccine can be given at the same time or at any time before or after a TB skin test (Mantoux test) is done. Influenza vaccines will not affect the result of the TB test. 
 
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Who should get the influenza vaccine?
It is recommended that everyone 6 months of age and older get an influenza vaccine, with rare exception. Some people are at high risk of serious illness from influenza, such as children 6 months to less than 5 years of age, pregnant people, seniors 65 years and older, and people with certain medical conditions. Vaccination is especially important for these people.
 
For more information, visit our influenza page. 
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Influenza vaccine & people 65+

Who can receive the Fluzone® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT vaccine for free?

Adults 65 years of age and older living in long-term care, assisted living facilities, and First Nations communities are eligible to receive the Fluzone® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT vaccine for free.

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I'm not eligible for the free Fluzone high-dose influenza vaccine. Where can I purchase it?
The FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT vaccine may be available for purchase through pharmacies and travel clinics throughout BC. 
 
 
 
 
 
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What influenza vaccines are recommended for adults 65 years of age and older?
For the 2022-23 influenza season, there are two enhanced influenza vaccines that are recommended for adults 65 years of age and older: FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT vaccine and FLUAD® adjuvanted vaccine. 
 
  • The FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT vaccine is publicly funded (free) for adults 65 years of age and older who are residents of long-term care, assisted living or First Nations communities. This vaccine contains a higher dose of antigen to help create a stronger immune response.
  • The FLUAD® vaccine is publicly funded for all other adults 65 years of age and older. This vaccine is a trivalent influenza vaccine and contains an adjuvant that helps create a stronger immune response.
Adults 65 years and older are at increased risk for severe illness, hospitalization, and death from influenza compared with younger populations and studies suggest that, in this age group, these two enhanced vaccines are potentially more effective than the standard dose unadjuvanted influenza vaccines.  
 
Either of these enhanced influenza vaccines are recommended for this age group. There is not enough evidence to show that one of these vaccines is better than the other.
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What are the differences between FLUAD® and FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT influenza vaccines?
FLUAD® and FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT both enhance the immune response to influenza antigens in older adults (making them potentially more effective vaccines for this age group), but they do this in different ways. 
 
FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT contains a four-fold higher antigen content per dose than standard dose influenza vaccines to help create a stronger immune response. It is a quadrivalent vaccine, meaning that it protects against four strains of influenza virus. This vaccine is publicly funded (free) for adults 65 years of age and older living in long-term care, assisted living facilities, and First Nations communities. 
 
FLUAD® has the same antigen content per strain as standard formulation influenza vaccines, but contains an adjuvant, an ingredient that helps create a stronger immune response. It is a trivalent vaccine, meaning that it protects against three strains of influenza virus.This vaccine is publicly funded for all other adults 65 years of age and older.
 
Both FLUAD® and FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT are given by intramuscular (IM) injection (injected into the deltoid muscle in the upper arm). 
 
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Is one of the enhanced vaccines (FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT and FLUAD®) recommended over the other for adults 65 years of age and older?
No. There is not enough evidence to show that one of these enhanced vaccines is better than the other.  Either of the enhanced vaccines (FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT and FLUAD®) are recommended for adults 65 years of age and older.  
 
Randomized control trials and observational studies have shown that both enhanced influenza vaccines are better than standard-dose unadjuvanted influenza vaccines when it comes to preventing influenza-related hospitalization in adults 65 years of age and older.
 
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What is the impact of the additional B strain in FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT that is not included in FLUAD®, for adults 65 years of age and older?
Influenza is a virus that mutates (changes) from year to year, and for this reason it’s necessary to produce a new vaccine every year. Each year World Health Organization scientists decide what the most likely influenza strains will be and decide what influenza strains to include in the vaccine for that year. Influenza vaccines are made up of two A strains of influenza and one or two B strains. 
 
There are two lineages (think ancestors) of influenza B virus: Victoria and Yamagata. The quadrivalent vaccine (FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT) includes both lineages of influenza B virus (Victoria and Yamagata) and two A strains. The trivalent vaccine (FLUAD®) includes only one B strain (Victoria lineage) and two A strains. 
 
The Yamagata lineage is not included in the trivalent vaccine but this is not expected to have much, if any, impact on vaccine protection compared to quadrivalent vaccine during the 2022-23 season. There has been very little detection of the Yamagata lineage in the world since the start of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. Instead, most of the influenza B viruses circulating have been Victoria lineage. 
 
Studies have shown the trivalent vaccine still provides some cross-protection for the other B strain even when the influenza B lineage chosen for the trivalent vaccine is different from the circulating lineage.
 
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I’m a 68 year old who received the regular influenza vaccine because my immunizer had not yet received the enhanced influenza vaccine for people 65 and over (FLUAD®). Should I get FLUAD® now since it is now available?
When FLUAD® is not available it is recommended that people receive FLUZONE® QUADRIVALENT instead of recommending that people wait for FLUAD® supply or travel to receive FLUAD®. People 65 years of age and older who receive a standard formulation influenza vaccine within the season are not advised to receive another dose of enhanced influenza vaccine within the same season. 
 
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Influenza vaccine & children

Will the influenza nasal spray be available for kids this year?

Yes, the FLUMIST® QUADRIVALENT vaccine (given as a nasal spray) is available for children and youth 2-17 years of age.

This year, all influenza vaccine appointments will be booked through the provincial government’s Get Vaccinated system. If you have not yet registered your child with the Get Vaccinated system, you can register to receive an invitation to book an appointment. Everyone who is registered should receive an invite soon.

When booking an appointment through the Get Vaccinated system, you will have the option of selecting “nasal spray” and only clinics offering the nasal spray (Flumist) vaccine should appear.
 

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Why do children under 9 receiving the influenza vaccine for the first time need two doses?

Children under 9 years of age who have never had a seasonal influenza vaccine need 2 doses for best protection.  The first dose of the influenza vaccine “primes” the immune system but may not result in high levels of protection.  A second dose is needed to raise their level of protection. 

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Where do I get the numbing cream for my child to use before they get the vaccine?

You can buy numbing creams and patches at your local pharmacy. You do not need a prescription from your health care provider to buy them. Here is some information about the numbing creams and patches.

 
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Influenza vaccine safety

I just recovered from COVID-19. Should I wait to get my influenza vaccine?
It is safe to get the influenza vaccine any time after having COVID-19 once you have recovered and ended your self-isolation.
 
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What are the side effects of influenza vaccines?
Influenza vaccines are very safe.
 

Common side effects from the inactivated influenza vaccine include soreness, redness and swelling where the vaccine was given. Other symptoms, that may last 1 to 2 days, can include fever, headache, muscle soreness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and chills. Babies and young children may be irritable, sleepy and have a decreased appetite. Fewer than 1 in 20 people may have oculo-respiratory syndrome (ORS). Symptoms of ORS include red eyes, a cough and/or sore throat and/or hoarseness.

The live attenuated influenza vaccine contains weakened influenza viruses and may cause mild influenza symptoms but these are much milder than those due to influenza infection. Symptoms may include a runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat and fever. Other symptoms can include headache, decreased appetite, weakness, muscle soreness, chills, vomiting, stomach ache and irritability.

 
Many people experience no side effects from influenza vaccines.
 
Serious side effects after influenza vaccination, like a severe allergic reaction, are very rare. 
 
 
 
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Are influenza vaccines safe for pregnant people?

There is good evidence to show the inactivated influenza (flu) vaccine is safe for pregnant people and their babies.  Pregnant people, or those intending to become pregnant, should receive the inactivated influenza vaccine (given by injection), not the live attenuated vaccine (LAIV or nasal spray).

Influenza vaccination is recommended for all pregnant people at any stage of pregnancy to protect themselves and their babies.

Influenza can be very serious during pregnancy. Normal changes that happen in the body during pregnancy, like changes in the immune system, make pregnant people more likely to get really sick from influenza and to be hospitalized. 
 
Influenza can also be harmful to the baby. When people get the influenza vaccine during pregnancy, they can pass protective antibodies to their baby that can help protect the baby from influenza for several months after birth. This is important because babies can get really sick from influenza but can’t get the vaccine until they are six months old. 
 

Visit our pregnancy section to learn more about vaccines and pregnancy.
 

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How do I report an unexpected side effect?
It is important to report any unexpected side effects to the health care provider that gave you the vaccine so that they can be investigated further, even if you don't know if the vaccine caused them. By reporting an adverse event (a serious or unexpected reaction that happens after someone receives a vaccine), possible vaccine safety concerns can be investigated and appropriate actions taken. If you don't know who gave you your vaccine, contact your local health unit and ask to speak to a public health nurse. 
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Can influenza vaccines give me influenza?

The inactivated influenza vaccine cannot give you influenza. This vaccine contains killed influenza viruses that cannot cause infection. The live attenuated influenza vaccine given as a nasal spray contains weakened influenza viruses. Common reactions to the live vaccine include mild symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and fever. These symptoms are less severe than those from influenza infection and last a shorter time. As a precaution, people with weakened immune systems should not get the live vaccine.

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Can I get an influenza vaccine if I am allergic to eggs?

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization says that people who are allergic to eggs, including those who have experienced anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergy) after eating eggs, can be safely vaccinated with a full dose of inactivated or live attenuated influenza vaccine. This recommendation is supported by more and more research that shows it is safe to vaccinate people who are allergic to eggs using inactivated or live attenuated influenza vaccines. 

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Can I get an influenza vaccine while I am breastfeeding? Is it safe for my baby? What about other vaccines?

There is no risk to you or your baby to receive the influenza vaccine (flu shot by injection) while you are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding people should get the flu shot to protect themselves from the flu. Getting vaccinated reduces your risk of getting sick and of passing the influenza on to your baby, thus protecting the baby also. This is especially important for children younger than 6 months old since they are too young to receive the influenza vaccine themselves. 

 

Routine Vaccines

Vaccines are important for the health of breastfeeding people and their babies. In general, most routine vaccines can be safely given if you are breastfeeding. There have been no reported safety concerns related to giving routine vaccines to breastfeeding people or their babies. There is no evidence that immunization during breastfeeding will have a negative impact on the immune response of breastfeeding people and their babies.

 

Non routine vaccines

There are a few instances when vaccination is not recommended during breastfeeding, which are related to live travel vaccines or vaccines rarely or not used in Canada (yellow fever vaccine, oral typhoid vaccine, BCG vaccine and live replicating smallpox vaccine).

 

Find more information in our pregnancy section. If you have further questions, we recommend you speak to your primary care provider.

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Is the influenza vaccine safe during pregnancy? Also, is it safe for pregnant people to receive vaccines with thimerosal?

Pregnant people should receive the inactivated influenza vaccine (given by injection). There is good evidence to show the flu shot is safe for pregnant people and their babies. In BC, influenza vaccine may be provided by prenatal care providers including family doctors and midwives, but can also be provided by specialty prenatal care service providers and by community-based pharmacists, or at the local health unit. Read more in our pregnancy section.

Thimerosal is in multi-dose vials only, but the amount of thimerosal in flu vaccines is very low. The ingredients in vaccines have been carefully studied for a long time and are safe in the small amounts used in vaccines. Pregnant people can receive an influenza vaccine with thimerosal unless the person has a systemic allergy to thimerosal. Read more in our safety section.

If you have further questions, we recommend you speak to your pregnancy care provider.

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Influenza vaccine effectiveness

How effective are influenza vaccines?
The influenza vaccine is the best way to protect against influenza. How well the vaccine works varies from season to season. It depends on how well-matched the influenza vaccine is with the viruses circulating during the season and on the health status and age of the person being vaccinated. When the influenza vaccine is well-matched with the circulating viruses, it prevents influenza in about 60% to 80% of adults and youth receiving the vaccine. It is less effective in seniors and elders, but studies have shown that the influenza vaccine decreases the incidence of pneumonia, hospital admissions, and death in the elderly population.
 
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Is it safe to get vaccinated if?

Is it safe for I or my child to get vaccinated when we are sick? Should we stay home from the vaccination appointment?
Most of the time, it is safe to get vaccines when you or your child are sick with a mild or moderate illness, even if there is a fever. These illnesses do not change the effectiveness of vaccines or increase the risk of vaccine side effects. 
 
Examples of mild or moderate illnesses include the common cold, ear infections, and gastrointestinal illnesses. If you or your child are taking antibiotics or antivirals, there is no need to delay most vaccines.
 
Severe illness may be a reason to delay vaccination. If you or your child have a serious illness, talk to your doctor or public health nurse. They can help determine if it is safe to get vaccinated or reschedule your vaccination appointment.
 
Waiting until you or your child are recovered from an illness that can spread from person to person (like COVID-19) ensures that you are not putting others at risk of infection at the vaccination clinic. Further, it is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between the worsening of an illness and potential vaccine side effects. 
 
Due to COVID-19, there are enhanced infection control measures at vaccination clinics. Please get in touch with your local health unit, doctor’s office or pharmacy before an appointment. You can also call 8-1-1 and discuss your concerns with a nurse anytime, day or night.
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I am immunocompromised. Is it safe for me to get vaccinated?

Many people who are immunocompromised can safely receive routine vaccines. Health care providers follow specific schedules and vaccine recommendations for immunocompromised people. Some immunocompromised people may not be able to receive live vaccines except when approved by their primary care provider or specialist.

 

Individuals may be immunocompromised as a result of a condition they are born with or an illness or medication that weakens their immune system. In general, immunocompromised persons are more susceptible to vaccine-preventable infections and may have severe infections. This makes staying up-to-date with vaccinations especially important.

 

Tell your healthcare provider if you are immunocompromised.

 

 

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I have a chronic disease. Is it safe for me to get vaccinated?
Many people living with chronic diseases can safely receive routine vaccines. Chronic diseases may increase a person's risk of infection or their risk of more severe disease should infection occur; this makes getting vaccinated especially important.
 
There may be different vaccine schedules or recommendations for people living with certain chronic diseases. Your healthcare provider (medical specialist, doctor, or public health nurse) can tell you which vaccines are recommended for you.
 
Examples of chronic diseases include asplenia or hyposplenia, chronic renal disease, neurologic disorder, chronic lung, heart, and liver disease, endocrine and metabolic diseases, non-malignancy hematologic disorders, autoimmune conditions, cancer, and chronic salicylate therapy in children.
 
Tell your healthcare provider if you are living with a chronic disease.
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Is it safe to repeat vaccines? I can’t find my vaccination record.

Without a record of vaccination (or proof of immunity to a disease), a person is considered unvaccinated and unprotected and should generally be vaccinated (or revaccinated) to ensure protection. It is safe to repeat vaccines.

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Do vaccines cause that?

Do vaccines cause chronic illness or other long-term health problems?
  • There is no evidence that vaccines cause health problems such as autism, asthma, SIDS, or autoimmune diseases such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
  • We learn about a vaccine’s safety during clinical trials before it is approved and monitor it’s safety continually as millions of doses are administered after its approval.
  • We’ve been monitoring the safety of vaccines for more than 50 years and we can say that the chance a vaccine will cause unexpected long-term health problems is extremely low. 
 
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Can vaccines cause autism?
  • Many large studies have found that vaccines do NOT cause autism.
  • A number of credible studies have compared the health of vaccinated and unvaccinated children over many years. They have found that unvaccinated children were just as likely to develop autism as vaccinated children.
  • It is not known exactly why some children develop autism; current research suggests that both genetics and environment likely play a role.
  • Because children with autism are often diagnosed after the age when they receive some vaccines, this has led some people to think that vaccines cause autism. But just because one thing happens after another, it does not mean there is a link between them.
  • Much of the controversy around a possible link between the MMR vaccine and autism came from a single small study published in 1998.
  • The study was found to be fraudulent and was withdrawn by the journal that published it.
  • Many large, high-quality scientific studies around the world have since taken place and have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. A summary of several of these studies and their conclusions is available at www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4026.pdf.
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Can vaccines cause SIDS?
Vaccines have not been shown to cause sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Infants receive multiple vaccines between two and four months of age. This period is also when the risk of SIDS is highest. This has led some people to question if the two are related. However, because the incidence of SIDS is the same in children who do or do not receive vaccines, we know that SIDS is not caused by vaccines.
 
An example of how the hepatitis B vaccine was shown to not cause SIDS: 
 
  •  In 1999, a news program in the US aired a story claiming that the hepatitis B vaccine caused SIDS.
  • At the time of the introduction of the hepatitis B vaccine for routine use in all infants, about 5,000 children died every year from SIDS.
  • Within 10 years of the introduction of the hepatitis B vaccine the use of the vaccine increased to about 90 percent of all infants receiving hepatitis B vaccine and the incidence of SIDS in that age group decreased dramatically to about 1,600 cases each year.
  • The cause of the decrease in SIDS cases was attributed to the introduction of the “Back to Sleep” program by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
  • However, since immunizations are given to about 90 percent of children less than 1 year of age, and about 1,600 cases of SIDS occur every year, it would be expected, statistically, that every year about 50 cases of SIDS will occur within 24 hours of receipt of a vaccine. 
Multiple research studies and safety reviews have looked at possible links between vaccines and SIDS. The evidence added up over many years does not show any links between childhood immunization and SIDS. Some studies have found that infants who died of SIDS were less likely to have been immunized.
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Do vaccines cause asthma and allergic diseases?

Several large studies have looked at the risk of developing asthma following receipt of a number of different childhood vaccines. Vaccines were not shown to cause asthma or allergic diseases. 

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Do vaccines cause autoimmune diseases like diabetes and multiple sclerosis (MS)?
There is no evidence that vaccines cause autoimmune diseases such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
 
  • Several studies have shown that vaccines are not associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes.
  • Several studies have been done that have found no evidence that vaccines cause MS or flare-ups of MS.
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Can getting multiple vaccines at the same time overwhelm my baby's immune system?
No. Getting multiple vaccines at the same visit will not overwhelm your baby’s immune system. It’s safe, and makes sure your baby is protected sooner rather than later. 
 
  • Every day, a healthy infant’s immune system successfully fights off millions of germs (antigens) they come across in their surroundings.
  • Vaccines contain only a tiny fraction of the antigens (germs) that infants come across every day.
  • Infants are born with thousands of antibodies that provide protection. They are ready to fight against many different diseases. They are also born with the immune cells that are needed to make antibodies in response to getting many vaccines at one time.
  • Theoretically, infants have the capacity to produce one billion antibodies. So, it is estimated that they could handle up to 10,000 vaccines at any one time.
  • Vaccines do not overwhelm or weaken a child’s immune system. Instead, they make it stronger by providing protection against diseases.
  • Even combination vaccines, which protect against multiple diseases, are easy for your child’s immune system to handle.
As one doctor put it, “Worrying about too many vaccines is like worrying about a thimble of water getting you wet when you are swimming in an ocean.”
 
Listen to Dr. Paul Offit MD, talk about whether babies get too many vaccines.
 

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Can a vaccine give me or my child the disease it’s supposed to prevent?
It isn’t possible for inactivated (killed) vaccines to cause disease. This is because a germ has to be alive to cause disease.
 
Some vaccines contain weakened live versions of the whole germ, such as Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine, and chickenpox (varicella) vaccine. These weakened germs in live vaccines will not cause the disease in a person with a healthy immune system. However, live vaccines are not given to people with very weak immune systems as they may develop the disease the vaccine is meant to protect against. Your health care provider will make sure that you or your child can safely receive a live vaccine before giving it.
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Vaccine side effects & reactions

How do I report an adverse event (a serious or unexpected side effect or medical event) following vaccination?
Please report any adverse events (serious or unexpected side effects or medical events following vaccination) to the health care provider who gave you the vaccine. You can also report an adverse event to your own health care provider (if different from who gave you the vaccine), or you can call your local health unit and ask to speak with a public health nurse.
 
Health care providers are trained to report these events to the correct channels. Reporting adverse events following vaccination is an important part of Canada's vaccine safety monitoring process. Read more about vaccine safety monitoring. 
 
If you are concerned about any serious reactions, call your doctor, your local health unit, or call 8-1-1 to speak with a nurse. If this is an emergency, call 9-1-1. 
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Can vaccines cause side effects?
Yes. Like any medication or supplement (including vitamins), vaccines can cause side effects. 
 
  • Vaccine side effects are usually minor, such as a sore arm or mild fever, and go away within a few days.
  • Many people have no side effects at all.
  • Serious side effects are very rare.
  • The risks from the diseases that vaccines prevent are much greater than the risk of vaccine side effects.
You can find general information on vaccine side effects:
 
You can find information on side effects of specific vaccines in: 
 
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Where can I find information on vaccine side effects?
You can find general information on vaccine side effects on:
 
You can find information on side effects of specific vaccines in: 
 
During the vaccination appointment, your health care provider will review the vaccine side effects and will advise that you seek medical attention if you or your child experiences a serious or unexpected reaction.
 
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What should I do if I or my child have an unexpected or serious reaction to a vaccine?
  • Contact the health care provider who gave the vaccine to report the reaction. 
  • Contact your local health unit if you don't know who gave the vaccine. Ask to speak with a nurse.
  • If it is an emergency, call 9-1-1. 
It is important to report any unexpected or serious reactions (called adverse events) to your health care provider so that they can be investigated further. It is important to report the adverse event even if you don’t know if it was caused by the vaccine. By reporting adverse events, possible vaccine safety concerns can be investigated and appropriate actions are taken.
 
Serious reactions to vaccines are very rare. 
 
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Where can I report an adverse event (unexpected or serious vaccine reaction)?
  • Contact the health care provider that gave the vaccine to report the reaction.
  • If you don't know who provided the vaccine, you can contact a health unit near you and ask to speak with a nurse. 
Vaccine safety is important. Reporting potential adverse events (unexpected or serious reactions) following immunization is a part of Canada's vaccine safety monitoring process.
 
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If someone has a bad reaction to a previous dose of a vaccine, can they be vaccinated again?

Most people who have an adverse event (unexpected or serious reaction) following vaccination can safely get vaccinated again. Your health care provider will tell you what is recommended for you or your child.

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Other questions about vaccine safety

I want to separate the antigens in a combination vaccine. How do I know if another vaccine option is available? Can I choose the vaccine brand?

Combination vaccines take two or more vaccines that could be given by themselves and put them into a single injection so that children can get protection against several diseases with just one shot. Before a combination vaccine is approved for use, studies must show that the combination vaccine is just as safe and effective as each of the individual vaccines given separately. Research shows that the side effects of combination vaccines are similar to those of the individual vaccines given separately. Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, polio, and haemophilus influenzae type b (DTaP-HB-IPV-Hib) vaccine is an example of a combination vaccine. 

A specific brand of a vaccine is not recommended over the other. What is important is protection against vaccine-preventable diseases, not the brand of vaccine.

Contact vaccination providers in your area to ask which combination vaccines or brand(s) are available. Routine childhood vaccines are available at local health units and some doctors' offices. 
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How long does it take for a vaccine to be tested and approved for use in Canada?
It can take up to ten years or longer for a vaccine to be developed, tested, and approved for use by Health Canada. Occasionally, the process can be expedited (happen more quickly) if there is an urgent need for a vaccine (for example, during a pandemic). No safety steps are skipped in these cases, and the vaccine still has to meet all the same safety requirements. An example is COVID-19 vaccines. 
 
  • Vaccines are among the most strictly regulated medical products in Canada. 
  • All vaccines go through an in-depth testing process and must be shown to be safe and effective before they are approved for use in Canada. 
  • This process goes through several phases in order to gather all the scientific information necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. 
  • Once a vaccine has been approved for use, and for as long as the vaccine is used, its safety is continuously monitored. 
  • Canada has one of the best vaccine safety programs in the world.
 
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How do we know vaccines are safe?
Only vaccines that are proven to be safe, effective, and of high quality are approved for use in Canada. 
 
Here are some important things to know about vaccine safety:
 
  • The approval process for vaccines is more stringent than most drugs available in Canada.
  • It can take up to ten years or longer for a vaccine to be developed, tested, and approved for use by Health Canada. Occasionally, the process can be expedited (happen more quickly) if there is an urgent need for a vaccine (for example, during a pandemic). No safety steps are skipped in these cases, and the vaccine still has to meet all the same safety requirements. An example is COVID-19 vaccines. 
  • Health Canada only approves a vaccine if it is safe, it works, it meets manufacturing standards, and the benefits outweigh the risks.
  • Because vaccines are given to healthy people, including children, they are held to the highest safety standard—even higher than most drugs used for treatment. 
  • Like any medicine or supplement (including vitamins), vaccines can cause side effects. Usually vaccine side effects are minor, such as a sore arm or mild fever, and go away quickly. Many people who receive vaccines have no side effects at all. Serious side effects are very rare. 
  • A vaccine’s safety is continuously monitored following its approval. 
  • Canada has several advanced systems in place (at the local, provincial, and national levels) to carefully monitor the safety of vaccines and detect any safety concerns. 
  • In the very rare event that a lot (batch) of vaccine results in an unexpected side effect, these systems can ensure that the rest of the lot is not used. 
 
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Is it safe to get more than one vaccine in the same limb (arm or leg)?
Yes, getting more than one vaccine in the same arm or leg is safe for both children and adults. For example, babies get two vaccines in one thigh muscle and one in the other at two months of age. Also, some vaccines go into the muscle, and some go into the subcutaneous tissue, so while they are given in the same limb, they are not given at the same injection site. For example, a tetanus-diphtheria (Td) vaccine goes into the muscle of your upper arm, and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine goes into the tissue in the back of your arm. 
 
Vaccines are tested and approved to be given at the same time as other vaccines. This does not increase the risk of side effects or decrease the effectiveness of the vaccines. If you have questions or would like vaccinations given in different arms or legs, ask the health care provider who is giving the vaccine.
 
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Does Canada have a vaccine injury support program?
Yes. Canada’s Vaccine Injury Support Program is a federal program that provides financial support to you if it is determined that you have experienced a serious and permanent injury after receiving a Health Canada-approved vaccine, administered in Canada on or after December 8, 2020. Financial support is also available to dependents of a person who has died after vaccination. 
 
Information about adverse events is not shared between the Vaccine Injury Support Program and B.C.’s immunization program. If you submit a claim to the Vaccine Injury Support Program, please make sure you have also reported any adverse events to a healthcare provider in B.C. so that the event can be reported and vaccine safety can be monitored.
 
Canada has very high standards for vaccine safety. Health Canada:
 
  • Only approves vaccines in Canada after a thorough and independent review of the scientific evidence.
  • Works with others to monitor vaccines on the market, and can quickly make changes if they identify safety concerns.
It is very rare for a vaccine to result in a permanent injury. 
 
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Is getting the vaccine riskier than getting the disease?
No. For almost everyone, the risks from the diseases are far greater than the risks from vaccines that prevent them. However, there are rare exceptions, such as individuals with serious allergies to some vaccine ingredients, or those who cannot receive live vaccines because of weak immune systems.
 
Vaccine-preventable diseases cause serious illness and complications such as pneumonia, deafness, brain damage, heart problems, blindness, and paralysis, and carry a risk of lifelong disability and death. In comparison, vaccines carry very small risks. The main risks associated with vaccines are side effects, which are almost always minor and temporary. Serious adverse events from vaccines are very rare.
 
It’s important to remember that a choice not to vaccinate is not a risk-free choice. By not vaccinating, you are trading a small risk for a much more serious risk. Learn more.
 
Examine the evidence: Serious side effects are extremely rare. 
 
 
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Is it safe for my child to get more than one vaccine at the same time?

Yes. Getting more than one vaccine at the same time is safe and ensures you or your children are protected against serious diseases earlier rather than later. Research shows that routine childhood vaccines work just as well when they are given at the same visit as when they are given at separate visits, and that giving these vaccines at the same visit does not carry any extra safety risks.

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Are combination vaccines safe?
Yes, combination vaccines are safe.
 
  • Combination vaccines take two or more vaccines that could be given by themselves and put them into a single injection so that children can get protection against several diseases with just one shot.
  • The diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, polio, haemophilus influenzae type b (DTaP-HB-IPV-Hib) vaccine, and measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine are examples of combination vaccines.
  • Before a combination vaccine is approved for use, studies must show that the combination vaccine is just as safe and effective as each of the individual vaccines given separately.
  • Research shows that the side effects of combination vaccines are similar to those of the individual vaccines given separately.
  • The vast majority of side effects are very mild, such as temporary pain and swelling at the injection site.
  • Most of the vaccines available in combinations are not available separately. If one component of a vaccine is declined, all other components are also declined. For instance, refusing the measles vaccine means that a child cannot be vaccinated against rubella and mumps, either, because the measles vaccine in Canada is only available in combination with the mumps and rubella vaccines.
 
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My child accidentally got an extra dose of vaccine. Is this harmful?

Getting an extra dose of the routine childhood vaccines is not harmful. Extra doses are often given when a person’s vaccination history is unknown. 

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Getting the shingles vaccine

How often do you need the shingles vaccine? Do you need to get booster doses? How long does immunity from shingles vaccination last?

The Shingrix® vaccine is given in two doses, at least two to six months apart. The Shingrix® vaccine is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles and long-lasting nerve pain (post herpetic neuralgia).

In research studies, immune responses have been shown up to 9 years after immunization. There is no current recommendation for booster doses of either shingles vaccine, which is an area of ongoing research. Read more about shingles.

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Cost of shingles vaccine

Why aren't all vaccines free in B.C?

In B.C., decisions to fund vaccine programs are made by the Ministry of Health based on recommendations from the Communicable Disease Policy Advisory Committee. This expert scientific committee looks at statements issued by Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization, the published literature, product monograph, as well as provincial epidemiology (how often the disease occurs in different groups of people in the province) and available health economic analyses. It also considers issues related to feasibility of implementation, resource requirements, and other related considerations. Recommendations for new vaccine programs or expansions are considered by the Ministry of Health against other new health initiatives.

The routine vaccines provided free for you and your child will provide protection against potentially serious diseases than can be effectively and safely prevented by vaccination. 

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Why get vaccinated against HPV

Why are HPV vaccines important?
HPV vaccines help prevent cancer caused by HPV infection. HPV infection is a very common; 3 out of 4 sexually active people will get HPV at some point in their lives. While most HPV infections will go away on their own, some will not and can become cancerous over time. HPV infection can cause:
 
  • Cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva
  • Cancers of the penis
  • Cancers of the anus and mouth and throat in both women and men
HPV infection can also cause genital warts. There are many different types of HPV. The types that cause genital warts are not the same as the types that cause cancer.
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How well do HPV vaccines work?
In those who have never been infected with HPV, the vaccines prevent almost 100% of cases of cervical cancer caused by the HPV types covered by the vaccine. The HPV9 vaccine prevents about 78% of cases of anal cancers in men caused by the two main types of HPV. The vaccine also prevents about 90% to 100% of cases of genital warts that are caused by two other types of HPV.
 
A recent 2019 study showed that B.C.'s school-based HPV immunization program has significantly reduced the rates of cervical pre-cancer. The study found that in B.C. those who had received the HPV vaccine in Grade 6 had a 57% reduction in the incidence of cervical pre-cancer cells compared to unvaccinated women. 
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Who can get the HPV vaccine for free?

You can find a list of people eligible for a free HPV vaccine here. People not eligible for the free vaccine can buy the vaccine at most pharmacies and travel clinics. You do not need a prescription. However, some insurance plans may cover the cost of the vaccine and may require a prescription for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance provider.

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HPV vaccine safety

Are HPV vaccines safe?
Yes. HPV vaccines are safe. Vaccines are approved for use in Canada only if they meet very strict standards for safety and effectiveness. The HPV vaccine was well studied in clinical trials and was not approved for use in Canada until the studies showed that it was safe and effective. Since vaccine licensure, hundreds of millions of doses of HPV vaccines have been distributed worldwide. Vaccine safety monitoring has continued to show that the HPV vaccine is safe. Learn more about vaccine safety here.
 
Common reactions to the HPV vaccine are similar to reactions from other vaccines and include redness, swelling, and soreness in the arm where the vaccine was given. Fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle or joint ache may also occur. As with other vaccines, fainting has occurred following HPV vaccination. Fainting can occur with any medical procedure - not just the HPV vaccine—and people recover quickly.
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Do HPV vaccines cause serious side effects?
Serious side effects to all vaccines, including HPV vaccines, are extremely rare. In most cases, when serious side effects are reported, there is not enough information to determine whether the serious side effect was actually caused by the vaccine. It is important to understand the difference between a side effect that is caused by a vaccine and an unrelated event that happens to follow the receipt of a vaccine.
 
The benefits of getting the HPV vaccine greatly outweigh the very small risks. 
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I heard the HPV vaccine can cause infertility. Is this true?

Extensive research has shown no evidence that the HPV vaccine can cause infertility. In fact, HPV cancers (that the vaccine protects against) can lead to issues with fertility. 

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Is it safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding to get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccines are not recommended for use in pregnancy because the safety of the vaccines in pregnancy is unknown. However, if a pregnant person happens to receive the HPV vaccine, it is important to note that the vaccine has not been shown to cause any harm to the baby. The HPV vaccine may be administered to people who are breastfeeding.

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HPV vaccine & sexual health

Do you still need Pap tests if you get the HPV vaccine?

Yes. It is important to get regular Pap tests because the HPV vaccine protects against most but not all types of HPV that cause cervical cancer.

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Do HPV vaccines promote earlier sexual activity?

There is no evidence that being vaccinated against HPV encourages earlier sexual activity.  What’s more, a study published in October 2018 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal showed that since the implementation of the school-based HPV vaccination program in B.C., sexual risk behaviours reported by adolescent girls have either reduced or stayed the same. These findings contribute evidence against any association between HPV vaccination and risky sexual behaviours.

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Should I get the HPV vaccine if I'm already sexually active?

The HPV vaccine works best when people are vaccinated before they become sexually active. However, a person should still get the vaccine even if they are already sexually active. This is because they are unlikely to have been exposed to all of the types of HPV contained in the vaccine. The HPV vaccines do not treat HPV infections.

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HPV vaccine schedule

How many doses of the HPV vaccine are needed?

The HPV vaccines are given as either two or three doses over a 6-month period. Children who start a series when they are 9 to 14 years of age need two doses given at least 6 months apart. People who start a series when 15 years of age and older and those with a weakened immune system need three doses.

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Why are HPV vaccines routinely given at such a young age?
HPV vaccines are routinely given in Grade 6 for two reasons:
 

1. Research shows that preteens have a better immune response to the vaccine than older teens. This means they will be better protected if they are exposed to HPV in the future.

2. The vaccine is best given before sexual activity begins (and before any exposure to HPV). Most people who become infected with HPV first catch it within 2 to 5 years of becoming sexually active, so it is important to vaccinate them before they begin sexual activity. 
 
Anyone who engages in any kind of sexual activity involving oral or genital contact can get HPV. Sexual intercourse is not necessary to get infected.
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Finding vaccine records

I can't find my vaccination records. What can I do?
Here are some tips for finding your vaccination records:
 
  • Check your home for your paper record of vaccination. Try looking through baby books or other saved documents from your childhood.
  • Check with your parents or other caregivers to see if they have a record of your vaccinations.
  • Check with your current and previous family doctors. Keep in mind that vaccination records are kept at doctors' offices for a limited time.
  • Check with your local health unit if you were vaccinated at your local health unit or in school in BC.
  • Check with your pharmacist if you were vaccinated at your local pharmacy.
  • Check with your community health nurse if you were vaccinated in a BC First Nations community.
  • BC residents can access all their health records in a single place: Health Gateway. It is accessible by anyone 12 and older with the BC Services Card app.
Without a record of vaccination (or proof of immunity to a disease), a person is considered unvaccinated and unprotected. They should generally be vaccinated (or revaccinated) to ensure protection. It is safe to repeat vaccines. Blood tests to determine immunity to vaccine-preventable diseases are not routinely recommended or available for all diseases. Your health care provider can help determine what is best for you.
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Can I get a copy of my or my child’s vaccination record from my local health unit?
Health units in B.C. maintain an electronic registry of immunizations provided by Public Health (public health nurses). Records may be available for pick-up at the health unit or sent by mail. If you or your child were vaccinated at a doctor’s office, at a pharmacy, or in a First Nations community, your records may not be in the Public Health registry. 
 
 
 
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I don't have a copy of my child's vaccination record. Where can I get one?
Health units in BC maintain an electronic registry of childhood vaccines provided by Public Health (public health nurses or community health nurses). If your child was vaccinated at a doctor's office, at a pharmacy, or in a First Nations community, their record might not be in the Public Health registry.
 
If you do not have a copy of your child's vaccination records, there are several places you can look:
 
  • Check your home for your child's paper record of vaccination. Try looking through baby books or other saved documents. In BC, childhood vaccines are most often recorded in the Child Health Passport.
  • Check with your local health unit if your child was vaccinated at the health unit or in school.
  • Check with your child's doctor if your child was vaccinated at their doctor's office.
  • Check with your pharmacist if your child was vaccinated at your local pharmacy.
  • Check with your community health nurse if your child was vaccinated in a First Nations community.
Children without vaccination records (or proof of immunity to disease) are considered unvaccinated and unprotected. These children should generally be vaccinated (or revaccinated) to ensure protection. It is safe to repeat vaccines. Blood tests to determine immunity to vaccine-preventable diseases are not routinely recommended or available for all diseases. Your health care provider can help determine what is best for your child.
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How do I find out what vaccines I would have received as a child?

The vaccines you would have been offered as a child depends on where you were born and where you lived during your childhood. If you were vaccinated here in British Columbia, you can find the historical list of all of the vaccine programs within BC in the BCCDC Immunization Manual.

However, without a record of vaccination (or proof of immunity to a disease), a person is considered unvaccinated and unprotected. They should generally be vaccinated (or revaccinated) to ensure protection. It is safe to repeat vaccines. Blood tests to determine immunity to vaccine-preventable diseases are not routinely recommended or available for all diseases. Your health care provider can help determine what is best for you.

Find tips for locating vaccination records. 

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I never got a Child Health Passport for my child. Where can I get one?

Child Health Passports are given out by public health, usually during the first contact with public health after the baby is born (for example, a new baby visit) or by mail when there is no in-person contact. If you have not received a Child Health Passport, you can request one from your local health unit. 

Find your local health unit.

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I misplaced my child’s Child Health Passport. Can I get another one?
Unfortunately, the Ministry of Health only prints one Child Health Passport per baby born each year, and there is no extra stock.  You may wish to download and print the passport yourself
 
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Moving to BC & vaccine records

Our family just moved to BC. We do not have my child’s BC Services Card (CareCard) or MSP coverage yet. Can my child still get vaccines for free?
Yes, your child can get routine vaccines for free at your local health unit. You can call the health unit to make an appointment.  
 
Some doctors' offices and pharmacies also provide vaccines. Pharmacists only immunize children 4 years of age and older. (They can also provide influenza (flu) by nasal spray to children 2 and over). However, if you do not have health insurance under BC's Medical Service Plan (MSP),  you may be charged a vaccine administration fee at a doctor's office or pharmacy. You will not be charged this fee at your local health unit.
 
It's important to take your child's vaccination records (a list of the vaccines they have received in the past) with you to your appointment.  
 
 
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We are moving to BC from our home country. Where can we get vaccines in BC? How do we make appointments? How much do vaccines cost in BC?
Your family can get vaccinated at your local health unit. Some doctors, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists also give vaccines. Pharmacists only immunize children 4 years of age and older. The exception is influenza nasal spray which pharmacists can give to children 2 and older. You can call your local health unit, pharmacy, or doctor's office to make an appointment. 
 
Vaccines that are part of BC’s routine immunization schedules for infants and children and school-age children are free. If you don’t have health insurance under BC’s Medical Service Plan (MSP), you may have to pay a vaccine administration fee for vaccines given at a doctor’s office or pharmacy. You will not have to pay this fee at your local health unit. Some vaccines that are recommended for adults are free for BC residents, and some you need to buy. 
 
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I am moving to Canada from another country and my family and I got vaccinated at home. How do we get our vaccines entered into B.C.’s immunization records? What vaccines do we need to get in B.C.?
Please read our People new to BC section to help you with this process.
 
It’s important to take your family’s immunization records (a list of the vaccines your family has received in the past) to your local health unit to be checked. Public health will take a copy of your records and enter them into B.C.’s immunization record system. If your records are in a different language, a public health nurse may be able to help translate them. 
 
A public health nurse will:
  • Check your records.
  • Tell you if your family is missing any recommended vaccines.
  • Give missing vaccines for free that are part of the routine BC immunization schedule.

Find B.C’s immunization schedules.

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We just moved to BC. How do I report my child's vaccinations?
If you have just moved to BC:
 
  • It is recommended that you contact your local health unit to report your child's vaccinations.
  • A public health nurse will check your child's record and recommend and provide any missing vaccines (vaccine schedules differ between provinces and countries).
  • After your child’s record has been checked, the information will be entered into an electronic health record that will be created for your child.
  • You can request a copy of your child’s record from your local health unit at any time.  
  • If your records are in a different language, a public health nurse may be able to help translate them. 
 
 
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My child was vaccinated in another province/country. How do I get their records?

If possible, it's advised that you attempt to obtain your child's records from your previous health care provider in the province or country they were vaccinated in.  

 

A child without a record of vaccination, or proof of immunity, is considered unvaccinated and unprotected. In general, it is advised that children without written documentation of vaccination get vaccinated according to the schedule for their current age. Getting extra doses of vaccine is not harmful and ensures protection. 

 

Find tips on locating immunization records.  

 

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We are moving to Canada and my family and I got vaccinated in our home country. Are the vaccine brands different between countries and B.C.? We don’t have our vaccine records, do we need to get antibody tests in B.C.?

Please read our People new to BC section to help you with this process.

 

Immunization programs vary throughout the world based on the vaccine preventable disease risks in that country and other factors. There may be differences in both vaccines offered and vaccine brands. Depending on where you moved from, and the vaccines you or your family have received in the past, you may need other vaccines now that you’ve moved to B.C. This is because vaccine recommendations in B.C. may be different than in your home country.

 

  • Antibody tests are not routinely needed before getting vaccinated in B.C.
  • If you’ve lost your immunization records, try contacting your doctor's office or clinic in your home country or province and ask that they send the records to you.
  • Without a record of immunization (or proof of immunity to a disease), a person is considered unimmunized and unprotected.
  • They should generally be vaccinated (or revaccinated) to ensure protection. It is safe to repeat vaccines.
  • You can find B.C’s immunization schedules for infants and children, school-age children, and adults here.
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Travel vaccines & Adults

What vaccines do I need for travel within Canada?
Regardless of your travel destination, it is important to ensure your routine vaccines are up to date. Routine vaccines provide protection against many diseases and are recommended for everyone in BC.
In general, there are no additional vaccines you need for travel within Canada. However, for some people, additional vaccines may be recommended based on occupation or activities.
If you have questions, talk with your health care provider and they can recommend the vaccines you need.
 
 
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In childhood, I followed the BC vaccination schedule. As an adult travelling outside of Canada, do I need boosters of routine vaccines or travel vaccines?
Some vaccines given in childhood are considered suitable for your lifetime, and others require boosters to maintain protection against that vaccine-preventable disease. An immunizing healthcare professional can review your vaccination history and ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date. 
 
When travelling internationally, you may be at risk for many diseases rarely found in Canada but are common in other parts of the world. Visiting a travel health clinic at least six weeks before leaving BC is preferable as you may need routine and travel vaccinations. Recommendations depend on your age, overall health, planned travel activities, and local conditions.
 
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What vaccines do I need for travel outside of Canada?
We do not provide travel vaccine recommendations at ImmunizeBC. You will need to contact your health care provider or a travel clinic (preferably 6 weeks before you travel) to find out which vaccines are recommended for your travel destination.
 
When travelling outside of Canada, you may be at risk for a number of diseases that are rarely found in Canada but are common in other parts of the world. 
 
 
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TWINRIX®

I had two doses of the combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) and missed my third dose at six months. Do I have to restart the schedule?
No, you do not have to restart the vaccine schedule because:
  • For many vaccines, a longer interval between vaccine doses results in higher antibody levels after the series has been completed.
  • For most vaccines, antibody levels decline gradually over time. Even months or years later, another vaccine dose can boost antibodies to higher levels.
The combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) routine adult schedule provides full protection once you receive all three doses. Please speak to your immunization provider to complete your vaccine series.
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Do you need to get a booster of the combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) if you already had three doses?
The combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) is typically provided to adults on a schedule of 0, 1, 6 months, and this does not require a booster dose at a later date.
 
There is also a three-dose accelerated schedule given to adults immediately before travel, and a booster is needed at least 12 months later. If you had an accelerated series in the past, it is important to get a booster now to ensure full protection. Look at your vaccination records and if you had an accelerated schedule, contact a travel clinic or pharmacy about getting a booster dose.
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How long does the combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) vaccine provide protection?
The combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) provides protection (immunity) for at least ten years and likely for a lifetime once you complete the full series. Currently, there is no recommendation for a booster dose of TWINRIX®. 
 
  • The routine TWINRIX® schedule for adults is three vaccine doses over six months (0, 1, 6 month schedule).
  • Sometimes, a rapid dose schedule is used when people are about to travel and have less time. It may be given in four doses, with the first dose followed by doses at seven days, 21 to 30 days, and 12 months.  
  • If you have other questions, please contact a travel vaccination provider.
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I would like to get the combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) for travel. How much does it cost?

The combination hepatitis A and B vaccine (TWINRIX®) is not part of BC's publicly-funded (free) vaccination program. It is available for purchase from travel health clinics, most pharmacies and some doctors' offices.

 

ImmunizeBC does not have a list of vaccine prices, but the TWINRIX® vaccine may cost $80-85 per dose (at least three doses required). The health care provider may also charge a travel consultation or vaccine administration fee. Services and prices vary throughout BC.

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Travel vaccines & Children

Is it safe to travel internationally with children if they haven't completed their routine vaccinations? How long does it take for them to be protected?
When travelling internationally, you and your children may be at risk for many diseases rarely found in Canada but are common in other parts of the world. Visiting a travel health clinic at least six weeks before leaving BC is preferable because some vaccines may take several weeks to become fully effective, and others may require more than one dose. Click here for a list of travel clinics in BC.
 
Parents or guardians need to weigh international travel benefits and risks in consultation with a travel health professional. The travel health visit is an opportunity to:
  • review vaccination histories
  • make sure the family's BC vaccination schedules are up-to-date
  • determine if children can receive any vaccines early
  • Your family may need additional travel vaccinations depending on ages, planned travel activities and local conditions. Click here to see the Government of Canada vaccination recommendations by country.
  • In general, protection starts to develop after about two weeks of getting a vaccine; however, several factors impact an individuals' response to vaccines. 
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Is it safe to vaccinate a baby with the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine before one year of age for international travel? What about children who need a second dose of MMR vaccine?
  • Yes, it is safe to give the MMR vaccine as early as six months for babies travelling outside of Canada where measles is of concern or travelling to locations experiencing outbreaks. Babies under six months of age do not receive the MMR vaccine as we don't have vaccine safety information for this age group. 
  • Two additional doses of the MMR vaccine must be given after 12 months of age to ensure long-lasting protection against measles.
  • Children over 12 months of age with one dose of MMR vaccine may be offered a second MMR dose (on an accelerated or earlier schedule) before international travel.
  • Contact a travel clinic at least six weeks before travel for vaccination and health recommendations for you and your family. Click here for a list of travel clinics in BC.
  • The MMR vaccine is available from your local health unit and some doctors' offices. Services vary across BC. Click here to find the contact information for a health unit.
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We are travelling outside of Canada and our child is due for their routine vaccinations. Can we get the vaccines early or get the vaccines in another country?
For best protection, children should receive all recommended vaccines on time when possible. Please discuss your travel plans with your immunizing health care provider and let them know when you will be away.
 
  • Your immunizer can tell you whether your child can receive any of BC’s routine vaccinations before travel. 
  • We do not have information about vaccination services in other countries. If you are outside of Canada for an extended period, please follow up in that country about childhood vaccinations.
  • If your child receives any vaccines internationally, keep the vaccination records and share them with your immunizing health care provider when you return to Canada.
There may be travel vaccines recommended for your destination. You should consult your healthcare provider or visit a travel health clinic—at least six weeks before you travel. When travelling internationally, you and your family may be at risk for some diseases rarely found in Canada but are common in other parts of the world. Travel vaccines provide essential protection. Click here to read more about travel vaccines.
 
 
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Where to get Travel vaccines & Costs

Do prices change depending on where you receive your travel vaccines? How do I know if a clinic or healthcare providers are qualified to give travel vaccines?
Yes, prices vary by location, and some clinics charge a consultation fee or vaccine administration fee. Travel vaccines can be purchased and given at travel clinics, some pharmacies and some doctors' offices or clinics. Contact locations near you to ask about travel health consultations and vaccine costs.
 
In BC, the Health Professions Act regulates healthcare providers and what they can do (including the areas of vaccination and travel health vaccinations). You can click here for a list of BC health care sites designated as Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
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Where can I get travel vaccines? Do I have to pay for travel vaccines?
Where a person can get travel vaccines depends on the specific vaccines they need for their travel destination. 
  • Certain vaccines recommended for travel may only be available at travel clinics (for example, the yellow fever vaccine is only available at designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres), whereas others (for example, the hepatitis A vaccine) are available for purchase at most pharmacies. Travel vaccines are not publicly funded and do need to be purchased. 
  • Vaccines that are part of the routine BC vaccination schedule are free and available from health units, pharmacies, and some doctors’ offices.
  • It is recommended that a person contact a travel clinic or immunizing healthcare provider (preferably 6 weeks before they travel) to find out which vaccines they need.
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Rabies

Who should get a rabies vaccine? Is the vaccine free? Where can I get the rabies vaccine in BC?
The rabies vaccine can be given to prevent rabies before exposure to the rabies virus. Click here to read more about rabies and the vaccine.
 
In BC, the rabies vaccine is provided free to those exposed to an animal that may have rabies and students attending a Canadian Veterinary College or Animal Health Training Centre. The vaccine may be provided by your local health unit or your educational institution. 
 
In BC, the vaccine is recommended (but not for free) for others at risk of being exposed to the rabies virus through work, volunteering or travel. The rabies vaccine can be purchased and received at travel health clinics. Services vary throughout BC; the rabies vaccine may also be available at pharmacies or doctors' offices in your area.
 
Contact your local health unit with other questions about the rabies vaccination. Use the health unit finder. 
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I live in BC and I think an animal that may have rabies has bitten or scratched me. What should I do?
Rabies is a very serious and almost always fatal disease caused by a rabies virus. If an animal that may have rabies has bitten or scratched you, you need to seek medical care right away.
  • Contact your local health unit or call 8-1-1 (anytime day or night) to speak with a nurse.
  • A healthcare provider will decide if you need rabies prevention treatment. It is important to begin prevention treatment for rabies as soon as possible. 
  • You can get the rabies for post-exposure prophylaxis  (preventative treatment after potential exposure to the virus) at your local health unit. 
  • Click here to read more about about rabies and the vaccine.
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I was travelling and an animal that may have rabies bit or scratched me. I started my rabies vaccination outside of Canada. How do I finish my rabies vaccine series in BC? Do I have to pay?

Once you arrive back in BC, contact your local local health unit right away and tell them you started a rabies vaccines series outside of Canada. Provide any rabies vaccination records or documentation about the animal bite or scratch and treatment to the health unit.

In BC, the rabies vaccine is provided free to those who have been exposed to an animal that may have rabies. Click here to read more about about rabies vaccination.

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Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccines

I am pregnant and wondering if I should get the Tdap vaccine. Where can I get the Tdap vaccine in BC, and will I have to pay for it?
Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommended that all pregnant people get the pertussis vaccine to help protect the baby after birth. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada also recommends that all pregnant people get the pertussis vaccine. 
 
From November 1, 2020, pregnant people in BC can receive publicly funded (free) diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine Tdap vaccine every pregnancy. The best time to get the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine is between 27 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. The vaccine may be given earlier and until delivery. 
 
In BC, prenatal care providers will provide the Tdap vaccine, including family doctors and midwives. The vaccine may be provided by specialty prenatal care service providers and community-based pharmacists or at the local health unit. Find more information in our pregnancy section.
 
 
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I would prefer the one Tdap vaccine brand over the other. In BC, can I choose which Tdap brand I get (Adacel or Boostrix)?

In BC, the tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is available, but a specific brand is not guaranteed. There is not a specific brand of Tdap vaccine that is recommended one over the other. What is important is the protection against three vaccine-preventable diseases. 

 

Vaccines are available at local health units, travel clinics, most pharmacies and some doctors offices. Contact providers in your area to ask about which vaccine brand(s) are available. 

 

 

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How often should adults get a tetanus/diphtheria booster? What if you have an injury?

Adults who were immunized against tetanus and diphtheria (Td) when they were younger should get a booster dose of the Td vaccine every ten years. This booster dose strengthens or boosts the immune system to give better protection against these diseases. Adults who have not been immunized or do not have a record of prior immunization should also get the vaccine.

This vaccine may also be given to people with serious cuts or deep wounds if their last tetanus vaccine was given more than five years ago. If you have a serious cut or wound, including punctures, bites, burns, or scrapes, please see your health care provider immediately for treatment. This is especially important if the wound is dirty.

Find more information on vaccines recommended for adults. 

 

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Is the Td (Tetanus-diphtheria) vaccine publicly funded (free) in BC, and how often should I get it?
The Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine is free in BC. Adults vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria when they were younger should get a booster dose of the Td vaccine every ten years. This booster dose strengthens or boosts the immune system to better protect against these diseases. Adults who have not been vaccinated or do not have a record of prior vaccination should also get the vaccine.
 
Adults can get the vaccine from local health units and most pharmacies. Some doctors' offices also provide vaccines. Services vary across BC. 
 
 
 
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Who is tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap) vaccine recommended for? Should I get a Tdap or Td vaccine? Do I have to pay?

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine is recommended and provided for free for the following people: 

  • Students in grade nine. This vaccine dose is a booster for children vaccinated against these diseases at a younger age. Also, people born in 1989 or later who missed their grade nine dose of Tdap are eligible to get one dose for free.
  • Pregnant people in every pregnancy, ideally given between 27-32 weeks of gestation to help protect the baby against pertussis (whooping cough) after birth. Read more in our pregnancy section.
  • Children seven years of age and older who have not been fully vaccinated.
  • Adults or immigrants who have not been vaccinated or whose vaccination history is unknown.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends that adults vaccinated in childhood receive one dose of Tdap (a pertussis-containing vaccine) in adulthood. In BC, the tetanus-diphtheria (Td) vaccine is free and, the Tdap vaccine is available for purchase. Contact your local pharmacy or travel clinic to purchase and receive the Tdap vaccine. 

 

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Can you get a tetanus vaccine alone (without diphtheria)?

The tetanus vaccine is not available on its own (without diphtheria) in BC. The vaccine routinely given to adults as a booster dose is the Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine. The tetanus vaccine is combined so a person can receive protection from several diseases with one injection (shot). Several different vaccines prevent tetanus among infants, children, adolescents and adults. 

 

Adults who were immunized against tetanus and diphtheria when they were younger should get a booster dose of the Td vaccine every ten years. This booster dose strengthens or boosts the immune system to better protect against these diseases. Read more about tetanus.

 

 

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I stepped on a rusty nail yesterday. Do I need a tetanus vaccine right away?

If you have a serious cut or wound, including punctures, bites, burns or scrapes, it is recommended that you see your healthcare provider immediately for treatment.

 

Talk to your doctor, vaccinating pharmacist or local health unit about getting a Td (tetanus and diphtheria) vaccine as soon as possible if you have a dirty cut or wound and five or more years have passed since your last Td vaccine. Use the health unit finder.

 

If you have further questions about tetanus or vaccinations, speak with your healthcare provider or call 8-1-1 to speak with a registered nurse at HealthlinkBC.

 

 

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My child had a Td vaccine last year after stepping on a nail. Do they need to get the Tdap vaccine in grade nine?

In BC, the Tetanus-Diphtheria-Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) is offered to grade nine students. Check your child's vaccination record to see which vaccine they received last year: Td or Tdap. The nurse providing the vaccine will also review the type of vaccine given and whether another dose is needed.

 

If they received Td only, Tdap is recommended for pertussis (whooping cough) protection. There is no minimum interval (timing) between a dose of Td and Tdap when Tdap is given for pertussis protection.

 

If you have further questions, speak with a public health nurse at your local health unit. 

 

 

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I received a tetanus shot a week ago, and my arm is very sore. Is this normal?

Yes, this is normal, as pain at the injection site (where the needle goes into your arm) is one of the most common side effects of receiving the tetanus vaccine. These symptoms usually go away in a few days. 

 

Other common reactions to the Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) vaccine include:

  • Redness and swelling at the injection site.
  • Fever, headache and muscle soreness may also occur.

After a vaccine, pain and swelling can be managed with cold compresses at the injection site and acetaminophen, if needed. Avoid pressure on the injection site. Too frequent boosters of tetanus-containing vaccines may cause increased pain, swelling and redness at the injection site.

 

Report serious or unexpected reactions to a health care provider who gave the vaccine. For example:

  • Pain, redness, or swelling went past the nearest joint (shoulder or elbow).
  • Pain, redness or swelling that lasts for ten days or more.

 

 

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I had whooping cough. Do I have immunity, or do I need to get the pertussis vaccine?

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a highly contagious (easily spread) bacterial illness. People who have had whooping cough do have immunity for some time, but it does not provide life-long protection. Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is recommended to protect against whooping cough.

 

Adults are recommended to have one dose of Tdap vaccine if they have not received a pertussis-containing vaccine in adulthood. The Tdap vaccine is not free for most adults in BC. Vaccines are available to buy from most pharmacies, travel health clinics and some doctors’ offices. Read about what vaccines adults need here.

 

 

 

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Monkeypox

Will people in BC be offered a vaccine to protect against mpox?
You can find more information on mpox, including prevention and vaccination, on the BCCDC's mpox page. 
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