Seniors in Richmond 90 years and older, born in 1931 or earlier, as well as Indigenous people 65 years and older can start calling next week (March 8) to book their COVID-19 vaccines and they will receive them starting the following Monday, March 15.
But Penny Ballem, immunization response team coordinator, urged people not to call if not eligible in order not to overwhelm the system.
After that, seniors aged 85 to 89 years old will follow – booking starting on March 15 and vaccines administered starting March 22 – and those 80 and older the following weeks.
The number to call in Vancouver Coastal Health is 1-877-587-5767, a number that will be activated March 8.
When calling, seniors need to give their first and last name, date of birth, postal code and personal health number (found on the back of driver’s license, BC Services Card or Care Card).
Ballem said some vaccine phishing scams have started, and she noted the health authorities won’t ask for driver’s license numbers, social insurance numbers or credit card or banking information.
Immunizations begin this week for those living and working in independent living centres and seniors supportive housing. Those receiving home-care support as well as staff also get their first vaccine doses.
The province and health authorities are currently trying to secure facilities for large-scale vaccination clinics which are expected to start April 12.
Dr. Bonnie Henry announced Monday that the time period between first and second doses has been increased to four months.
The province is expecting to administer 400,000 doses in B.C. by early April.
- with files from Glacier Media
