Article written by Dr. Tibesty Nguyen

Vaccination isn’t just for COVID-19 and flu – there are other key vaccines to consider.

It’s much safer to get the vaccine than the disease 

Vaccines offer far greater protection than the potential side effects they may cause. The complications from diseases that vaccines prevent can be severe and life-threatening. In countries with successful vaccination programs, vaccine-preventable diseases have significantly declined. High vaccination rates keep disease levels low, but when vaccination rates drop – due to fear of vaccines or disruptions in healthcare during conflicts or disasters – disease rates and related deaths inevitably increase.

Vaccines are safe and effective

Like all medicines, vaccines undergo a rigorous approval process before Health Canada authorizes their use. They must demonstrate safety and effectiveness in preventing their target diseases. Even after a vaccine is approved and in use, Canadian health authorities continue to monitor it for any side effects. Serious side effects from vaccines are extremely rare.

Be wise and talk to your Primary Care Provider about recommended vaccines that are right for you!

Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumococcal bacteria can lead to severe illness like pneumonia (an infection of the lungs), meningitis (swelling around the brain), and sepsis (an infection in the blood), especially in children and seniors.

Who should get vaccinated?

This vaccine is part of BC’s routine schedule for children and is free for adults 65+ and those at higher risk of severe disease. For more information, visit HealthLinkBC.

Where to get vaccinated?

Available at primary care providers, local public health units, and pharmacies.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine

RSV, often resembling a cold, can lead to serious lung infections. This vaccine is recommended for certain high-risk groups.

Who should get vaccinated?

It is available for purchase by adults 75+ and pregnant individuals in their third trimester. Speak to your healthcare provider if you’re interested in this vaccine.

Vaccines for kids

BC’s free childhood vaccination schedule protects children from several severe diseases, including:

  • Whooping cough (Pertussis): A serious lung infection that is more dangerous for unvaccinated babies.
  • Measles: Causes a rash and respiratory symptoms and can lead to severe complications, like brain damage.
  • Mumps: Leads to fever, headaches, cheek swelling, with possible severe side effects, like brain swelling.
  • Rubella: Mild in children but serious for pregnant individuals.
  • Haemopilus Influenza Type B: A bacterial infection that can cause life-threatening conditions like brain swelling and an infection in the blood.

Have a Positive Immunization Experience: Tips for Infants and Young Children

Parents play an important role in supporting their children during immunizations. 

Click here for tips you can use to help make the immunization experience more positive for you and your child.  

I’m an adult. What if I missed or did not receive the childhood vaccines given in BC?

Adults who missed vaccines as children can catch up on these immunizations for free. Consult your healthcare provider for more information.

For a complete vaccination schedule and additional details, visit Immunize BC.