COVID-19 Vaccination AftercareThose who have received a COVID-19 vaccine are reminded to continue to follow public health guidelines even after you are vaccinated. This includes:
For additional aftercare information please refer to the following documents:
For the most up-to-date, general information about getting a COVID-19 vaccine, please visit: |
BC’s COVID-19 Immunization Plan and Pharmacist’s Injection Authority
On January 22, 2021, the BC Government shared the strategy for the province’s evidence-based COVID-19 Immunization Plan. The plan is focused on saving lives and stopping the spread of COVID-19, meaning that as long as there is a limited supply of the vaccine, priority will be given to protecting those most vulnerable to severe illness first.
The plan is based on scientific evidence, as well as expert advice and guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization, BC’s Immunization Committee and BC’s public health leadership committee.
The COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed equitably and ethically to people in BC, following national ethical frameworks and BCCDC’s COVID-19 Ethical Decision-Making Framework.
The plan is based on the expected supply for the COVID-19 Vaccines currently approved by Health Canada. As a result, it is important to be aware that the timelines for the phases included in the COVID-19 Immunization Plan may change due to vaccine availability.
For additional details on the Province of BC’s COVID-19 Immunization Plan, see: |
Pharmacists are qualified to provide COVID-19 vaccines in line with the province’s COVID-19 Immunization Plan, so long as they meet all of the College’s requirements for administering injections.
The College has a Drug Administration Certification requirement and Standards, Limits and Conditions for Drug Administration by Injection and Intranasal Route. As part of these requirements, a valid certification in first aid and CPR from a recognized provider is needed.
Like any immunization, pharmacists would also need to ensure they have the knowledge, skills and ability to properly administer the COVID-19 vaccine.
The BCCDC has provided additional guidance and information on COVID-19 vaccines for providers, including recommendations for existing vaccine providers, and in particular, BCCDC COVID-19 Immunization Webinars. Watch for continual updates as more information and guidance becomes available.
Note: By completing an approved drug administration training program as part of the College’s Drug Administration Certification, pharmacists with the authority to administer injections have already met the BCCDC’s Immunization Competencies.
Resources
- BCCDC COVID-19 Vaccine Resources for Health Professionals
- BCCDC COVID-19 Immunization Webinars
- FBCCDC FAQ about COVID-19 vaccines and immunization program
- ImmunizeBC COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
- First Nations Health Authority COVID-19 Vaccine Resources