Vaccines in BC
British Columbia has one of the best immunization programs in the world.
Protection Against Infectious Disease
Currently, BC’s publicly funded immunization program provides a variety of vaccines for protection against infectious diseases including diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, Haemophilus influenzae b, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningococcal disease, pneumococcal disease, measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, influenza, and rabies for post-exposure prevention.
Vaccines are offered to all eligible persons in settings that include public health units, physicians’ offices, institutions and schools.
How Vaccines Work
Natural infection from certain diseases can kill or seriously harm a child before their body is able to mount an effective immune response.
- Vaccination is like a dress rehearsal for your immune system so it is prepared for the ‘real show’.
- The vaccine triggers your own body’s natural immune response into action to protect you against the disease without the risk of infection.
Did you know?
A less mature immune system and lack of physical development such as a smaller wind pipe means an infant or toddler is at much higher risk for serious complications and death from vaccine preventable diseases. This is another reason why it is important to immunize on time.
For more information on immunization and immunization programs in British Columbia - speak with your health care provider.
Last Updated: September 11, 2012
