Too many seniors living in congregate settings in B.C. still face barriers to accessing vaccines that can help keep them healthy, safe, independent, and engaged in their communities. National Immunization Awareness Month is an opportunity to address these gaps and ensure older adults receive the protection they need.
A BCCPA report released in August 2025 highlighted ongoing challenges in vaccine access for B.C. seniors. Nationally, fewer than 40% of seniors are vaccinated against shingles and pneumococcal disease, while influenza vaccination rates remain below 70%, falling short of the national target of 80% by 2025. In B.C., vaccination rates are even lower, with some of the greatest disparities affecting rural and low-income communities.
Older adults continue to face a range of systemic barriers, including mobility limitations, geographic isolation, out-of-pocket costs, policy limitations, and misinformation. For those living in seniors’ housing or care settings, a lack of on-site vaccination opportunities can result in missed or delayed protection against preventable illnesses.
This National Immunization Awareness Month, BCCPA is calling for expanded and equitable access to vaccines through stronger partnerships between provincial government, family physicians, pharmacists, and seniors’ care and living operators. By expanding on-site clinics, mobile vaccination programs, and partnerships across the health system, we can build a more equitable approach to immunization for older adults in B.C.
