Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced Monday, Sept. 13 that COVID-19 vaccinations will soon be mandatory for all health workers in BC. Dr. Henry also said optional third doses of the vaccines would be offered to people who are extremely immune compromised.
Vaccine mandate for health workers
As of Oct. 26, 2021, all health care professionals – including students, residents, and volunteers – will be required to have both COVID-19 vaccine doses in order to continue working. The new mandate will apply to people who work in community care locations, including workers who visit patients in their homes.
Third dose for extremely vulnerable people
A third dose of COVID-19 vaccines will be offered to approximately 15,000 people in BC who have severely compromised immune systems. This group includes recipients of organ and bone marrow transplants, stem cell transplants, people with blood cancers, and those who have autoimmune disorders.
People who are severely immune compromised develop fewer antibodies to the virus even after two doses, which is why the third dose is necessary to protect them.
Messages will go out from the province this week to invite people to register for a third dose. Those who do not receive an invitation do not need one at this time. People who believe they meet the criteria of being severely immunocompromised and have not been contacted by Sept. 17 may get in touch with their health care provider.
BC Vaccine Card is now live
As of Monday Sept. 13, people in BC aged 12 and over are now required to prove they have been vaccinated with at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine before visiting non-essential events and venues.
To get your Vaccine Card, visit gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard or call 1-833-838-2323 seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
How to get vaccinated
There are two ways to get vaccinated:
You can also register by phone at 1-833-838-2323 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., every day, with reduced hours on statutory holidays. Dial 711 if you are hearing-impaired.
For more information on the COVID-19 vaccines, visit our regularly updated FAQs.
If you are a client or health care provider with client-specific questions or concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine and do not have access to a primary care provider, call First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day at 1-855-344-3800. Medical Office Assistants are available to help you seven days per week from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
