B.C. kicks off three-day flu shot blitz

Respiratory cases continue to put intense pressure on B.C. hospitals as the province begins a three-day vaccination blitz, opening up more space for walk-in flu shots Friday through Sunday.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is also promising weekly updates on any flu-related deaths among children in B.C.

It has been a scary time for some parents as cases of influenza, RSV, and COVID have surged and headlines have focused on a number of tragic situations.

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In a statement Thursday, Henry confirmed reports of at least six flu-related deaths of children so far this season, roughly double the two or three deaths typically seen in the province over an entire season, according to figures from the BC Coroners Service.

“Early findings indicate some of the children experienced secondary bacterial infections contributing to severe illness, which can be a complication of influenza,” said Henry.

“It is important to know that death associated with influenza in previously healthy children continues to be rare. Public-health officials are monitoring the situation closely.”

That includes what is being called “enhanced surveillance” and the reporting of paediatric deaths to public-health officials.

“As the information is confirmed, updates on paediatric influenza-related deaths will be posted weekly as part of the respiratory surveillance summaries on the BCCDC website.”

Henry reminds that vaccination is the best protection against viruses like the flu. As the province opens up more availability for free, walk-in shots in the coming days, children aged six months to 12 years will get priority.

Related article: 

• BC Children’s Hospital triages patients from ER due to respiratory illness spike

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Health authorities, including Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health, list vaccination clinics on their websites.

There is no need to call ahead or make an appointment, just show up with a BC Services Card.

If preferred, you can book a spot through the provincial Get Vaccinated system.