A growing number of occupational groups are expressing dissatisfaction with the B.C. government's planned rollout of coronavirus immunizations.

Today, the B.C. Dental Association said that it's sent a letter to Premier John Horgan asking to be included in Phase 2 of the rollout plan.

"Dental professionals are the only health care providers who provide aerosol-generating dental procedures to patients who cannot wear a mask during treatment," the BCDA stated.

It noted that the Ontario government and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control have allowed dental professionals to be vaccinated ahead of the general population.

"We need to ensure dental professionals and our most at-risk patients in all B.C. communities remain safe in our ongoing commitment to provide dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic," the BCDA declared.

The B.C. Professional Fire Fighters Association and B.C. Teachers' Federation have also argued that their members should receive the vaccines in Phase 2.

In addition, the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union feels that some of its frontline workers should also be immunized earlier.

The B.C. government has decided to administer vaccines by age group. This means that in Phase 2, beginning in late February, vulnerable populations, Indigenous communities, health-care staff, and all seniors over 80 will be in line.

In March, those aged 75 to 79 years of age will be able to preregister for Phase 3, starting in April.