COVID-19 Q&A: Part 13
“When am I eligible for the COVID vaccine?”
Vaccine rollouts vary from province to province. Here in British Columbia, the COVID-19 vaccine rollout happens in four different phases. Currently, our province is in phase 2 of its immunization plan. You can learn more about British Columbia’s immunization plan and eligibility by clicking here.
“How do I book my COVID vaccine?”
Seniors will need to call to book their COVID vaccine. Vaccine call centres are open 7 days a week from 7 AM to 7 PM PST. The number you need to call will be based on the region that you reside in.
Fraser Health: 1-855-755-2455 (or book online by clicking here)
Vancouver Coastal Health: 1-877-587-5767
Interior Health: 1-877-740-7747
Northern Health: 1-844-255-7555
Island Health: 1-844-348-4787
“Can I set up a vaccine appointment for a friend or family member?”
If you know someone who might have trouble with calling to book their own COVID vaccine appointment, you are certainly able to call on that individual’s behalf as long as you provide their first and last name, date of birth, postal code, and personal health number. You may also be asked to provide an e-mail address or cell phone number so that a confirmation message can be sent.
“How many types of vaccines are available, and can I choose which one I get?”
Currently, there are four different types of COVID-19 vaccines available, including:
• Pfizer-BioNTech
• Moderna
• AstraZeneca
• Johnson & Johnson
However, you won’t be able to choose which vaccine you receive. Instead, it is recommended that you take the vaccine that is offered to you. Each of these vaccines have been approved in Canada and are considered to be safe and effective.
“What should I expect once at the vaccine clinic?”
Once at the vaccine clinic for your scheduled appointment, you will complete a check-in process where your personal information will be confirmed. You will then receive your first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Once the vaccine has been administered, you will then be asked to wait in an observation area for approximately 15 minutes to ensure you are feeling okay and have no adverse reaction. In total, you can expect to be at the vaccine clinic for approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
“Can I stop wearing a mask once I have been vaccinated?”
Even if you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, it’s important to continue to follow public heath orders (such as mask wearing and physical distancing when in public settings.) While the vaccines are considered effective, they don’t provide 100% immunity from the virus – and even those who are vaccinated could be asymptomatic spreaders and may pass it on to those who are not vaccinated and at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. It also takes some time before the vaccine itself actually kicks in and starts doing what it’s supposed to do in terms of protecting you from COVID-19.