October 23, 2020
Planning for increased demand
- The BCCDC has ordered 30% more vaccine supply over last year in anticipation of increased demand. Over 600,000 vaccine doses are allocated for Fraser Health.
- In a survey of community vaccine providers (GPs and pharmacists) 80% indicated they would be providing about the same or greater access to flu vaccine this season.
- Public Health is planning a 20% increase in booked flu clinics
- Divisions of Family Practice are being supported by GPSC and by Fraser Health Public Health to collaborate on flu clinics to increase availability this season.
- Demand typically exceeds availability of vaccine supply and appointments early in the season. With COVID-19 precautions, it may take people longer to get an appointment.
- Every vaccine provider will do their best provide a shot to everyone who wants one this season
Delivering flu vaccines in the context of COVID-19
- Fraser Health will ensure our flu clinics have appropriate COVID-19 precautions (e.g. screening for symptoms/exposure, physical distancing, personal protective equipment, cleaning).
- Fraser Health Public Health is offering booked family flu clinics for children age 4 and under, their immediate family members, as well as targeted outreach clinics for vulnerable populations.
- Fraser Health Public Health and some Divisions of Family Practice and community vaccine providers are offering mass community clinics.
- BCCDC has provided Guidance for Influenza Delivery in the Presence of COVID-19 that we have shared with community vaccine providers.
- In addition, Fraser Health Public Health has created practical Considerations when preparing for a mass immunization clinic to assist with planning.
How can community vaccine providers get information on flu vaccine?
- Public Health is communicating regularly with community vaccine providers throughout the season via our MHO Updates. These communications began September 17 and can be accessed on the Fraser Health at fraserhealth.ca/MHOupdates. You can also sign up to receive these updates by email on this website.
How is flu vaccine distributed to community vaccine providers?
- Flu vaccine is available beginning in mid-October.
- Fraser Health Public Health receives multiple vaccine shipments from BCCDC from October through December.
- To order flu vaccine, community vaccine providers submit requests to the Public Health Unit in their community using this form.
- Local Public Health Units distribute vaccines to community vaccine providers as supply becomes available.
How to get vaccinated
- Members of the public can access flu vaccination through their GP, local walk in clinics, pharmacies, Urgent Primary Care Centres, Public Health clinics, and mass community clinics.
- Residents of Long Term Care and Assisted Living facilities who are 65 years of age and older are eligible to receive the Fluzone High Dose vaccine. Long Term Care facilities will vaccinate their residents. Assisted Living facilities can make arrangements with community vaccine providers to deliver vaccine in their facility.
- Public Health flu clinics are by appointment only this year. There won’t be any drop in clinics.
- Visit Immunize BC’s Find an Influenza (Flu) Clinic webpage to find flu clinics in your community
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