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B.C. announces plan for mass vaccination campaign starting in April

VICTORIA — British Columbia’s oldest residents will be able to pre-register for COVID-19 vaccinations starting in March after the most vulnerable groups have been immunized under a provincial plan announced today.
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B.C. Premier John Horgan listens during a postelection news conference in Vancouver on Sunday, October 25, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

VICTORIA — British Columbia’s oldest residents will be able to pre-register for COVID-19 vaccinations starting in March after the most vulnerable groups have been immunized under a provincial plan announced today.

People who register for the age-based plan will get a reminder to book appointments when eligible, but provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says timelines for vaccination will depend on available doses.

Residents in long-term care homes and health-care workers who look after them are among those who are currently being vaccinated, followed in February by more residents of Indigenous communities as well as those who are over the age of 80.

Those aged 75 to 79 will be vaccinated starting in April as part of the pre-registration strategy that will also include people with underlying health conditions before those in younger age groups are immunized.

Everyone who is vaccinated will get a record of their immunization and a reminder of their second dose by text, email or phone call.

The aim is to administer vaccines to 4.3 million eligible residents by September using larger facilities including school gyms, arenas and mobile clinics, as well as home visits for those who are unable to attend a clinic.