Public-health officials are asking all British Columbians to get their influenza and COVID-19 immunizations as soon as possible, as rates of respiratory illnesses are on the rise throughout the province.

While COVID-19 continues to circulate in communities, the situation has changed. In B.C., more than 90% of the population has built some immunity to the virus through vaccination, infection or both, and the number of people at risk for serious outcomes from COVID-19 has dropped significantly.

Several groups are asking for the return of mask mandates, but the province hasn’t gone that far.

The government says if people have symptoms of respiratory illness, they should stay home and limit close contact with others, until they no longer have a fever and are well enough to participate in usual daily activities.

Everyone older than six months can get both immunizations for free.

People can book their shots through the provincial Get Vaccinated system.