Influenza, called the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses which can cause a wide range of symptoms and complications. To reduce the risk and spread of influenza, physicians recommend that seniors have a flu vaccination every year.
Tips & Links
- Seniors, especially those with health conditions, are at greater risk of complications from the flu such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions. This is why health care professionals recommend that seniors have a flu vaccination every year.
- Download Healthlink BC’s fact sheet on influenza, available in many languages.
- Learn more about Influenza symptoms and prevention from Healthlink BC.
- Get your Influenza vaccine every year as recommended by Immunize BC – it is free for everyone over 6 months of age in BC.
- Book your free influenza vaccinations online. If you are registered with the Get Vaccinated system you should receive an email or SMS text when it is time to book.
- People living in First Nations communities can contact their community health centre or nursing station to schedule an appointment to get their influenza vaccine.
- Explore the many places to get a vaccination in BC, including your physician’s office, pharmacy, and health units.
- Know that you can get your influenza vaccine and covid-19 vaccinations at the same time. Check your local health unit online to book an appointment.
- Learn how to get your updated vaccination record through your Health Gateway BC account.
Tools – Handouts & Videos
Categories: My Health Information, Senior
← Back to Resource Kit