Here's what you need to know about booking your next COVID-19 vaccine in B.C.

The latest round of COVID-19 vaccines are now available in B.C., but some residents say they are running into trouble as they try to book a shot.

On Oct. 4, invitations started going out by text and email inviting British Columbians to book their next vaccination.

Health Minister Adrian Dix said Wednesday that since the latest round of vaccines began, more than two million invitations have gone out, and more than 500,000 people have been vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu. 

"People are going to get vaccinated and I'm very, very supportive and appreciative of that," Dix said. "What a good decision for them, their families and their communities."

But some residents have reported confusion to CBC News around how and when they can get an appointment, as some run into trouble securing one.

It's been a while since the last vaccine, so CBC spoke with the Health Ministry about how this latest dose will roll out.

Who can book an appointment? 

"Starting in October, everyone six months and older can get an updated influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time," the province's website reads.

Once you receive a text message or email saying you're now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine, you can book an appointment. You cannot book until you receive this alert.

As with previous doses, the province has prioritized people in long-term care, Indigenous people, pregnant individuals, health-care workers, people with chronic health conditions and those over 65 years of age. 

Invitations are going out incrementally, but the province expects all four million people registered in the Get Vaccinated system to have receive an invitation by the end of the month. 

Who should wait to book their appointment?  

People are recommended to wait at least six months since their last COVID-19 vaccine before getting another one.

Anyone who has had COVID-19 can wait three to six months to get their next vaccination, because the chances of getting sick again after infection is low, the ministry says.

How can I schedule an appointment? 

People can book online through the Get Vaccinated system or by calling 1-833-838-2323. 

When booking, you can choose a date and time at either a pharmacy or vaccination clinic.

Alternatively, the Ministry of Health said some pharmacies will offer walk-in appointments for vaccinations, as long as they have vaccines available. 

Some pharmacies may also accept bookings directly through the pharmacy, rather than through the province's Get Vaccinated system.

Can families book appointments together even if they receive their invitations at different times? 

The ministry says booking appointments are for individuals, however, families can wait until every member receives their invitation, and book appointments for the same dates and times.

That said, some locations accept drop-in vaccinations if at least one family member has an appointment, the ministry adds.

The ministry also said that some health authorities will operate family-friendly clinics where families can all be vaccinated together, but advises residents to check with their local authorities for details. 

What happens if I can't get a booking? 

The ministry said the online booking system and phone line have experienced high demand during the first few days of the program, but that demand has started to decrease. 

"We're seeing a very significant volume of invitations go out," Dix said Wednesday. "We're trying to meet that demand."

Dix said he'd look into the extended wait times.

As call centre demand is highest in the mornings, it is suggested that people try calling later in the day.