Flu shots free for all eligible British Columbians this year in effort to reduce strain on health-care system
With B.C. still dealing with its fourth wave in the COVID-19 pandemic, the province is covering the cost of getting a flu shot for all eligible residents this year in the hope it'll reduce strain on an already burdened health-care system.
In a news release Tuesday, B.C.'s health ministry announced flu vaccinations will be free for everyone in the province aged six months and older. Children younger than that aren't eligible to get the shot.
"All British Columbians should get vaccinated against influenza to protect themselves and their loved ones from serious illness, to reduce the strain on our hard-working health workers and to do our part to make sure the health system continues to be there for people who need it, where they need it and when they need it," said Minister of Health Adrian Dix in the news release.
Officials have already warned this year could see a particularly severe flu season. In an interview with CTV Morning Live Tuesday, University of British Columbia's Dr. Michael Curry said it's expected to be worse than last year.
"Our regular cold viruses are back and while I haven't seen influenza yet, it usually appears around November or so and I suspect like the other cold viruses making a resurgence, I suspect influenza will as well this year," Curry said.
Typically, there is a small cost to get a flu shot, though there are a wide range of exemptions that waive the fee.
"This year, it’s especially important for people to get vaccinated against influenza. Last year’s low influenza rates means our immunity against influenza is lower than usual," said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer.
"Getting your influenza vaccine this year is more important than ever to protect yourself, your community and our overstretched health-care system."
Flu shots are already being offered to some high-risk groups and availability throughout the province is expected to increase in coming weeks.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
Pius Suter scored with 1:39 left and the Vancouver Canucks advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Nashville Predators on Friday night in Game 6.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.