Is there more than one type of flu shot (vaccine) available?
Yes. There are different flu vaccine manufacturers and multiple influenza vaccine products licensed and recommended for use in Canada.
Trusted vaccination information resources
To learn about different vaccines available in BC, which are most appropriate for whom, and to learn who is eligible for which vaccines free of cost, we encourage you to visit BC Lung's credible vaccination information resources:
As of 2020/2021:
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Children 2-17 years of age who are eligible for an influenza (flu) vaccine can receive FluMist® Quadrivalent by nasal spray. The nasal spray vaccine will be available at health units, some pharmacies and some doctors' offices. Pharmacists will be able to give the nasal spray flu vaccine to children 2 years of age and older.
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Adults 65 years of age and older, living in long term care and assisted living facilities can receive the Fluzone® High-Dose vaccine for free. Fluzone® High-Dose contains four times the antigen of a standard-dose influenza vaccine. The antigen is the part of the vaccine that helps your body build up protection against disease. This extra antigen is used to create a stronger immune response in older people to provide better protection against influenza. Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that people 65 years of age and older should get Fluzone® High-Dose because it is expected to provide better protection compared to the other influenza vaccines. However, use of the available influenza vaccine is preferable to remaining unvaccinated.
* If you have more questions about which influenza vaccine is right for you,please talk to your healthcare provider.