Officials Warn Against Misinformation as British Columbia Launches Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine Campaign

British Columbia health officials launched their autumn vaccination campaign on Monday with a strong warning against the growing tide of health misinformation circulating online and in communities across the province.

The campaign, which offers free influenza and COVID-19 vaccines to eligible residents, comes as officials express concern that false information about vaccines could undermine public health efforts during the respiratory illness season.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, addressed the issue directly during a news conference, emphasizing that vaccines remain one of the most important tools in protecting public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors and those with underlying health conditions.

“We’ve seen a concerning rise in misinformation about vaccines in recent months,” Henry said. “This poses a real threat to our collective health, especially as we enter the period when respiratory illnesses tend to spread more easily.”

The province’s vaccination strategy prioritizes high-risk groups, including residents in long-term care facilities, adults over 65, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions. Healthcare workers and Indigenous residents are also among those encouraged to receive the vaccines early in the rollout.

Health Minister Adrian Dix noted that immunization rates have fluctuated in recent years, partially attributable to the spread of false claims about vaccine safety and efficacy. “Our healthcare system depends on preventative measures like vaccination to reduce severe illness and hospitalizations during peak seasons,” Dix explained.

Provincial data indicates that approximately 70 percent of eligible B.C. residents received the flu vaccine last year, while COVID-19 booster uptake stood at roughly 60 percent. Officials aim to increase these numbers this season through improved accessibility and public education.

Dr. Penny Ballem, executive lead for B.C.’s immunization plan, outlined the logistics of this year’s campaign. “We’ve established over 500 vaccination sites across the province, including pharmacies, community clinics, and mobile units for remote areas,” she said. “Our booking system has been streamlined to make appointments more accessible.”

Public health experts point to the convergence of multiple respiratory viruses as justification for robust vaccination efforts. Last winter, British Columbia experienced significant pressure on its healthcare system with simultaneous circulation of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).

Dr. Danuta Skowronski, epidemiology lead at the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, explained that this year’s influenza vaccine has been updated to match currently circulating strains. “The vaccines are formulated based on extensive global surveillance data, and getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to prevent severe outcomes,” she said.

The province has also invested in a digital awareness campaign to counter misinformation. The initiative includes educational resources explaining vaccine development, safety monitoring systems, and the scientific evidence supporting immunization programs.

Community health organizations across B.C. have mobilized to support the vaccination effort. The BC Association of Community Health Centres is coordinating with cultural organizations to address vaccine hesitancy in diverse communities.

“We recognize that mistrust sometimes stems from historical experiences or cultural barriers,” said Maria Hudspith, the association’s executive director. “Our approach involves working with trusted community leaders to provide accurate information in culturally appropriate ways.”

Healthcare providers are also being equipped with resources to address patients’ concerns about vaccines. The BC College of Family Physicians has developed guidance for clinicians on discussing vaccine hesitancy and responding to common misconceptions.

Public health officials emphasized that vaccination is particularly important this year as many protective measures from earlier in the pandemic, such as masking and physical distancing, are no longer widely practiced.

Residents can book vaccination appointments through the province’s online portal, by phone, or by visiting participating pharmacies. Many locations also offer walk-in services for those unable to schedule appointments in advance.