The following message has been sent to all Island Health staff, medical staff, volunteers and students on behalf of Jamie Braman, Vice President of Communications and Partnerships and Interim Vice President of People, and Dr. Ben Williams, Vice President, Medicine, Quality, Research and Chief Medical Officer
October 22, 2024
RE: Immunization offers the best chance of protection from influenza and COVID-19
Fall is well underway, and with it comes respiratory virus season.
Immunization remains the single best way to prevent the transmission and spread of influenza and COVID-19. This year, Island Health staff, medical staff, volunteers and students have three options to book and receive their vaccines:
- Get Vaccinated System
The Get Vaccinated system allows individuals to book a time and place to receive their Influenza and COVID-19 shots. These vaccines are free for all BC residents aged 6 months and older. If you have at any time received a COVID-19 vaccine in BC, you are already registered with the system – you will receive an email or SMS text message when it’s time to book a new appointment. If you are unregistered, you can do so at https://www.getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca/s/.
- Site Vaccination Clinics
Island Health will be providing Vaccination Clinics in large acute sites across the island. The campaign is scheduled to run from October 21 to November 8. Site clinics are open to all Island Health staff, medical staff, volunteers and students. Please bring your Island Health ID badge and provincial healthcare card.
- Peer Immunizers
Depending on your location and department, there may be peer immunizers available on your unit to provide influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations. Please ask your leader if this is an option for you.
Declaring Vaccination Status
Please note that while influenza and COVID-19 immunization remains optional, all Island Health staff and medical staff are required to declare their vaccination status.
Questions?
You can choose to receive one or both of your vaccines at the same time – safely and conveniently. If you have further questions regarding vaccines and your immunization options, please access the Staff Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccination webpage, visit Immunize BC, reach out to your leader, or contact the Employee Health Advisor team in Health, Wellness, Safety & Ability Management at EHN-OHS@IslandHealth.ca.