B.C. pharmacists seeing ‘significant increase’ in vaccine uptake

Pharmacists say they are already seeing an uptick in demand for vaccines, just one day into fall COVID-19 and flu shots being offered to British Columbians.

For the second year, B.C. residents can book their vaccine appointments at their pharmacies.

Chris Chiew, president of the BC Pharmacy Association, says he’s expecting a “significant increase” in people getting vaccinated, given the number of bookings made as of Tuesday.

“We are seeing a very enthusiastic start to the fall vaccination campaign. All the appointments put out there seem to be filling up, which is great. We’re also accepting a lot of walk-ins at all the majority of pharmacies as well,” he told CityNews on Wednesday.

Chiew is urging people to book their vaccination appointments sooner rather than later, in an effort to better protect themselves through the respiratory virus season.

“I know sometimes with warm weather like we’re experiencing today, it’s hard to think about getting your vaccination. But, definitely, it is optimal to get it within the month of October because as we’re seeing more and more people come together, especially during the months of November and December, we want to make sure that people are immunized before they start going to their various get-togethers because we know that that’s one effective way in protecting other people, to get immunized yourself,” he explained.

He especially recommends vulnerable individuals — including people with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and the immunocompromised — get their shots as soon as possible.

Chiew says last year, pharmacists administered about 70 per cent of all vaccines in the province, adding he’s expecting to go “well over” that total this year.

You can book your vaccination appointment online by clicking here.