More than 20 per cent of Manitobans 18 and older have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, a significant milestone in the fight against COVID-19.
“As Manitoba receives more vaccine, we’ve been able to ramp up our efforts to get needles into arms,” said Health and Seniors Care Minister Heather Stefanson. “As of today, more than 216,200 Manitobans have received at least one dose. I want to thank the thousands of planners, health-care providers, physicians and pharmacists who have made it possible for thousands more to choose to get the vaccine to protect themselves and the people they love.”
There are currently five super sites operating in Winnipeg, Selkirk, Brandon, Morden and Thompson, with plans underway for more locations to open in the weeks ahead. Vaccines have also been delivered to personal care homes, congregate living facilities and other sites by Focused Immunization Teams. Pop-up clinics have been delivered in dozens of communities across the province.
“This immunization campaign is the largest in Manitoba’s history and I’m continually amazed at the work and leadership of key stakeholders, health providers and First Nations partners in this race against the virus,” said Johanu Botha, operations lead of the Vaccination Implementation Task Force. “While we have come a long way in a short period of time, there are many more waiting for their turn. We will continue to expand our program to all corners of the province to ensure they all have a chance to get their shot.”
Currently, there are four vaccines authorized for use by Health Canada. Moderna, Pfizer and AstraZeneca/Covishield are currently being administered in Manitoba. However, the single-dose vaccine Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) is not yet available in Canada.
“The vaccine is one tool we can use to help reduce the risk of COVID-19,” said Dr. Joss Reimer, medical lead of the Vaccine Implementation Task Force. “If we all get immunized, we can protect ourselves, protect our families and protect Manitoba.”
Reimer also noted that case numbers have been rising in recent days and that Manitoba may be in the early days of a third wave of COVID-19 cases.
“Right now, the actions of all Manitobans are critical. Be sure to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask and practise physical distancing,” said Reimer. “You can also help protect others by making your appointment as soon as it is your turn to get immunized.”
Individuals can sign up to be notified when it is their turn to be immunized and find more information on Manitoba’s vaccine program at protectmb.ca.
