British Columbia’s provincial health officer is encouraging people to get up to date on their vaccinations as the holiday season approaches.

Dr. Bonnie Henry says influenza activity is continuing to increase across the province, based on the latest data from the BC Centre for Disease Control.

This year’s dominant flu strain in B.C. is influenza A, subtype H3N2, which is associated with more severe illness, particularly among older adults.

Health officials say getting immunized remains the simplest and most effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness and hospitalization, especially as people gather indoors for holiday celebrations.

Dr. Henry is reminding residents that everyone six months of age and older should receive the updated influenza vaccine as soon as possible, along with the updated COVID-19 vaccine.

While a newer H3N2 strain circulating this year is not as closely matched to the vaccine as expected, studies from other regions show the vaccine still offers good protection against severe illness.

To learn more and to see the full statement, visit Government of British Columbia.