Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory illnesses, including influenza and the common cold.
COVID-19 vaccines will be available in B.C. during the fall 2026 season. More details are coming soon. If you are eligible for a vaccine, you will be notified through the Get Vaccinated system.
Immunization is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself against severe illness from COVID-19. Vaccines will be available free of charge for people in B.C. during fall 2026. If a COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you, you will receive a notification through the Get Vaccinated system when it is time to book your appointment.
To learn more about B.C.'s COVID-19 immunization program, visit COVID-19 immunizations (Government of B.C.).
To find out more about the vaccine, who should get it and possible side effects, visit HealthLink BC File #124a - COVID-19 mRNA vaccines.
If you have questions about your eligibility for a COVID-19 immunization, check with your health care provider or call 8-1-1.
To learn about COVID-19 symptoms, what to do if you are feeling ill, and who may be at higher risk for complications, visit:
If you have an infant who is less than 3 months of age and has a fever or shows signs of illness, they should be seen by a health care provider. For more information, visit COVID-19 illness in children (BC Centre for Disease Control).
A COVID-19 test is recommended when its result will help you and your health care provider make decisions about your treatment or care. Find out who needs testing:
Some symptoms could be signs of other conditions or medical issues and you may need to seek medical care, even if it's not related to COVID-19. If you feel unwell and are unsure about your symptoms, contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1.
You can use a rapid antigen test at home to find out if you have COVID-19. The results will be ready in less than 20 minutes.
Test kits are available free of charge at some community pharmacies. Once the existing supply of free tests runs out, some pharmacies may offer them for you to purchase.
A positive rapid antigen test is acceptable for getting treatment, if you are eligible.
Learn how to use a an at-home rapid testing kit and what the test results mean:
There are some specific treatments available for COVID-19. Find out if treatment might be right for you:
When seeing a health care provider, please tell them:
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.
