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B.C. Launches Fall Flu and COVID-19 Shots, Flags Surge of Vaccine Misinformation

Officials say a surge of false claims from abroad is eroding confidence in the seasonal vaccination drive.

Overview

  • The province has secured 1.94 million flu doses and 1.4 million updated COVID-19 shots, with more than two million residents invited to book through the Get Vaccinated system.
  • As of Oct. 19, about 275,000 flu vaccinations and nearly 215,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered, outpacing last year’s early uptake.
  • Health Minister Josie Osborne says much of the misleading vaccine content is originating outside Canada, particularly the United States, and is undermining public trust.
  • Deputy provincial health officer Dr. Martin Lavoie highlights Canada’s stringent vaccine-safety review and urges people to stay home when sick to reduce severe illness.
  • Shots are free for everyone six months and older, doses are being delivered to long-term care homes, and officials report no disruption from the ongoing public-service strike.