With fall respiratory illness season here, B.C. Minister of Health Hon. Josie Osborne and Deputy Provincial Health Officer Dr. Martin Lavoie officially announced the province’s 2025–26 vaccine campaign on October 22nd, 2025, encouraging British Columbians to protect themselves against influenza, COVID-19, and other viral respiratory illnesses. The campaign emphasizes the importance of vaccination for those at higher risk of serious illness and complications, including adults aged 65 and older and individuals living in long-term care.
Earlier this year, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) released a report, “Understanding Challenges in Accessing Priority Vaccines for Seniors Living Outside Long-Term Care in British Columbia,” which highlighted alarmingly low vaccination rates among seniors living in congregate settings. The findings point to multiple barriers, such as physical limitations, geographic isolation, policy gaps, misinformation, and cost, that prevent many older adults in assisted and independent living from accessing essential vaccines.
As this new campaign begins, it serves as a critical reminder of the need to prioritize vaccine access and uptake for seniors. Ensuring that older adults can easily and equitably receive vaccines is crucial to protecting their health and strengthening our healthcare system as a whole.
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BC Gov News: Roll up your sleeves, B.C., the 2025-26 vaccination campaign is here
