All pregnant people who are age 16+ are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccines as a priority population through B.C.’s Immunization Plan.
This decision was based on data that shows that pregnant people have an increased risk of severe complications associated with infection from COVID-19, including an increased risk of hospitalization and ICU admission.
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada has stated that people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be offered vaccination at anytime if they are eligible and no contraindications exist. They further support the use of any COVID-19 vaccine at any time in pregnancy.
Pregnant people have been strongly encouraged to discuss their decision to be vaccinated with their care providers. Information for patients can be found on the BCCDC website or the SOGC PregnancyInfo website. Physicians are asked to remind pregnant patients to not take ibuprofen for discomfort or fever after vaccination.
To access a vaccination booking, pregnant people are asked to register at gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated, then phone the Call Centre at 1-833-838-2323 and self-identify as being pregnant. Online booking for pregnant people is not available. Registering will ensure that the pregnant person is in the system and will be sent an invitation for their second dose at the appropriate time.
You can find more information on the Perinatal Services BC website.
Family physicians play an important role in counseling patients who are pregnant and establishing vaccine confidence. You can read more about how to bill for providing COVID-19 immunization advice here.