A previous version of this article did not indicate that, new this year, Vancouver Coastal Health clinics in Richmond require an appointment and are available for families with children only.
As the days gets shorter and colder, flu season is around the corner and for many, it’s the ideal time to get a flu shot.
In B.C., flu vaccines are provided free to many, including those who are at a high risk of serious illness from the flu such as young children, pregnant women, elderly, people with certain medical conditions or those who may transmit the flu to those who are at a high risk. However, even those who can’t receive the vaccine for free can still purchase it.
According to Health Canada, the flu virus changes every year and the effectiveness of the vaccine varies annually. This year, the flu shot will protect individuals against Influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and Influenza B.
In Richmond, there are many locations and opportunities to get the flu shot.
Vancouver Coastal Health Clinics
Richmond's Vancouver Coastal Health flu shot clinics require an appointment and are available for families with young children only. Call 604-233-3126 for more information or to book an appointment.
- Nov. 17, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Richmond Public Health (8100 Granville Ave.)
- Nov. 23, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Garratt Wellness Centre (7504 Chelsea Pl.)
- Nov. 27, 3:30 to 7:15 p.m. at Richmond Public Health (8100 Granville Ave.)
Pharmacies in Richmond
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Save on Foods
- London Drugs
- Loblaws
- Price Smart
- Costco
- Pharmasave
- Medicare Pharmacy
- Ackroyd Pharmacy
- Medisave Pharmacy
- Super Grocer & Pharmacy
Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between the common cold and the flu, especially since both can lead to sore throats and stuffy noses. Here are some key differences:
- Generally, flu symptoms appear very quickly while colds happen slowly.
- It’s rare to have a fever with a cold.
- Body aches and pains including headaches are more severe with the flu
- Fatigue is more severe with the flu
For more information including other locations to get the flu shot around the the Lower Mainland, visit Immunize BC's website.
