Health officials are urging every British Columbian to get immunized against the flu as the province prepares to deal with a particularly aggressive strain of the virus. 

Influenza H3N2, which is responsible for more hospitalizations and deaths than the H1N1 strain that dominated last year, has already caused several outbreaks at care homes, the government said Wednesday.

"We've seen five to six outbreaks at residential care facilities, and it is a strain that is more dangerous for older people," Health Minister Terry Lake told reporters.

Young children and people with compromised immune systems are also at higher risk, but everyone can be better protected if the province reaches what's known as herd immunity, when enough people are vaccinated to contain the spread of the disease.

Lake also said this year's vaccine is a good match for H3N2, "which is a reason more and more people should get the vaccine as soon as possible."

While generally healthy people might only feel miserable for a few days after catching the flu, it can leave vulnerable people hospitalized in Intensive Care Units. It can also cost them their lives, as it does thousands of Canadians every year.

Cancer patient Jacqueline Zweng is among that more vulnerable group, and received her shot this week.

"For me, being immunocompromised, it's essential," said Zweng, who is also the mother of an immunocompromised child.

About 3,500 people die from influenza and its complications every year across the country, according to health officials. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Perry Kendall said the virus kills more people than all other vaccine-preventable diseases combined.

Because the flu vaccine takes up to two weeks to fully take effect, Kendall urged the public to consider getting a shot early.

"By getting immunized prior to the start of the flu season, you can avoid any unpleasant fall surprises," he said.

Flu vaccines are free for anyone at higher risk of complications, which includes pregnant women, as well as the people who are close to them, such as family members or roommates.

It's also free for health authority employees, students, physicians, residents, contractors, vendors, volunteers and visitors to health care facilities, all of whom must be immunized by December. Those who aren't will be required to wear masks in patient care areas, the provincial government said.

Anyone interested in getting a flu shot can find a clinic using the Immunize B.C. website. 

With a report from CTV Vancouver's Maria Weisgarber