In short: Flu vaccines are free for all B.C. residents aged 6 months and older, and appointments began on October 13, 2026. The flu is usually more severe than a cold. Most people recover at home, but some need medical care. This guide is based on BCCDC, the B.C. government, HealthLink BC and WebMD.
Table of contents
The 2026-27 flu shot in B.C.
All B.C. residents aged 6 months and older can get a flu shot free of charge this fall and winter. Appointments began on October 13, 2026 and continue through the season, and more are added as vaccine arrives in the province.
The B.C. government recommends the shot especially for adults 65 and older (an enhanced vaccine is available), residents of long-term care and assisted living, people with a weakened immune system or a chronic illness, First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, children aged 6 months to under 5, people who are pregnant, and people who can spread the flu to those at high risk, including health care workers and first responders.
- Doses: usually one dose each fall. Children under 9 who have never had a flu vaccine need 2 doses, 4 weeks apart.
- Nasal spray: children 2 years and older can receive it.
- Where: public health units, some doctor and nurse practitioner offices, travel health clinics, and pharmacies. Pharmacists can give the injection to people 4 and older and the nasal spray to people 2 and older.
- Booking: people registered in the Get Vaccinated system are notified between October and November 2026. If you have not been notified by mid-November, call 1-833-838-2323 or book online. You need your Personal Health Number (PHN).
Flu symptoms
HealthLink BC lists fever, headache, muscle pain, runny nose, sore throat, extreme tiredness and cough. Children may also have nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. WebMD adds chills and general weakness.
Symptoms usually begin 1 to 4 days after exposure. Fever and other symptoms often last 7 to 10 days, while cough and weakness can last 1 to 2 weeks longer.
Flu, cold or COVID-19?
Flu symptoms can resemble a cold or COVID-19, and they are often more severe than those of other viral infections, with a greater risk of complications. WebMD notes it can be hard to tell when you have the flu and not just a cold. For personalized advice, call 8-1-1.
How the flu spreads
The flu spreads through coughing, sneezing or face-to-face contact, and by touching droplets from a cough or sneeze and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Adults can spread the virus from about 1 day before symptoms start to 5 days after. Young children may be contagious for longer.
Who is at higher risk
- Adults 65 and older
- Infants and very young children
- People with lung or heart disease, other chronic conditions or a weakened immune system
- People in the second half of pregnancy
Complications can include viral or bacterial pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.
When to see a doctor or call 9-1-1
If you have a condition that raises your risk of complications and develop flu-like symptoms, or if you are worried about your symptoms, contact your health care provider.
In an emergency, call 9-1-1. For personalized health advice at any time, call 8-1-1 to speak with a health navigator or health professional in B.C.
Preventing the flu
- Get the flu vaccine every fall.
- If you are sick, stay home until your fever is gone and avoid close contact with others until you feel well enough to resume usual activities.
- If you cannot avoid close contact, wear a mask in indoor spaces and clean your hands regularly.
Sources
- Government of British Columbia: Influenza (flu) vaccine
- BCCDC: Seasonal Influenza Update 2026/27
- HealthLink BC: Facts about influenza (the flu)
- HealthLink BC: Influenza (flu) season
- WebMD: Understanding flu symptoms
Published November 2, 2026. This article is general information from the sources above and is not medical advice or a substitute for assessment by a health care provider. Information may change; check the linked sources for the latest. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.