British Columbia’s annual fall immunization campaign is getting underway as the province prepares for another respiratory-illness season.

The province has secured close to two million doses of influenza vaccine and approximately 1.5 million doses of the latest COVID-19 vaccine.

Appointment invitations will be sent through B.C.’s Get Vaccinated system, with priority given to people who face a greater risk of severe illness or complications.

That includes seniors, Indigenous people, pregnant individuals and those with underlying medical conditions.

Health officials say receiving the flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same appointment is safe and can provide protection against serious illness throughout the fall and winter.

The vaccines will be available through participating pharmacies, public-health clinics and some primary-care providers.

Residents are being reminded that protection from previous vaccinations or infections can decline over time, while influenza and COVID-19 viruses continue to change.

Anyone who has moved or changed their telephone number or email address should update their information in the provincial system to avoid missing a booking invitation.

Registration and seasonal immunization information are available Government of British Columbia.