Fall means cooler weather and shorter days. It is the start of cold and flu season and the return to school for kids. Learn how to protect your health, adapt your habits to a new season, take care of your wellbeing and prepare for cold weather.
Learn how to protect yourself and your community against illnesses during cold and flu season:
COVID-19 and influenza vaccines will be available in fall 2026 to help protect you during viral respiratory illness season. Vaccines are very safe for you and your family.
If an influenza or COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you, you will receive a notification through the Get Vaccinated system when it's time to book your appointment.
Now is a good time to plan ahead and learn what you can do to make sure you stay safe as temperatures drop:
With shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures, many people are spending more time indoors. Learn about indoor air quality and precautions for various home heating methods:
Test your carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries every 6 months.
Fall can be a busy season with back-to-school and a change in routine from the summer months. Take proactive steps to support your wellbeing during the transition.
Plan meals and snacks ahead of time to make busy schedules more manageable and mealtimes more enjoyable. Include a variety of nutritious foods and drink plenty of water to support your immune system. This helps keep you healthy during cold and flu season.
Learn about healthy eating this fall:
For healthy eating information or advice, call 8-1-1 to speak with a registered dietitian.
Don't let the shorter and cooler days keep you from staying active. Physical activity is a key factor in keeping you and your family healthy:
For physical activity information or guidance, call 8-1-1 to speak with a qualified exercise professional or email Physical Activity Services.
Changes in routine, staying indoors more, spending less time in the sunshine and getting less physical activity can affect your mental health.
Pollen, moulds, dust mites and other allergens can cause Fall seasonal allergies. Learn about seasonal triggers, symptoms and home treatment:
Call toll-free in B.C., 8-1-1, or 7-1-1 for the deaf and hard of hearing to get personalized assistance. Speak to a navigator who can guide you to reliable health information or connect you with a health professional. Translation services are available in over 130 languages.
