News - COVID-19

Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care advises that respiratory virus season is here and all Manitobans six months of age and older are encouraged to get their free influenza (flu) and COVID-19 vaccines.

Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care reminds Manitobans it is not too late to protect themselves against COVID-19 or seasonal influenza by getting vaccinated. It is recommended people get their COVID-19 vaccine by the end of April to help ensure the recommended minimum intervals between doses in anticipation of the fall immunization campaign.

Effective Wednesday, Oct. 18, health-care staff working in Manitoba hospitals, personal care homes and other health-care facilities will be required to wear a medical mask during direct interactions with patients, residents and clients.

Manitoba Health advises that the first shipments of updated COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines are now being sent throughout the province, beginning with high-priority locations such as personal care homes and hospitals.

Manitoba Health is providing an update to Manitobans about respiratory viruses expected to circulate in the province over the coming months, as well as the provincial plan for COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccinations.

The Director of Vaccine Development with the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization says VIDO is advancing two COVID-19 vaccines that use the same antigen but different adjuvants.

Manitoba Health advises that individuals at the highest risk of serious COVID-19 outcomes may now receive a spring COVID-19 bivalent booster.

Manitoba Health advises that changes have been made to the Manitoba immunization card and verifier apps. People who previously downloaded the immunization card app will have Manitoba QR code access but that will be removed in a future update to the app.

Manitoba Health advises that a bivalent booster vaccine has been approved and recommended for children aged five to 11. Children in this age group have previously been eligible for a booster dose with the monovalent (original) Pfizer pediatric vaccine.

Manitoba Health advises that a Pfizer infant vaccine was recently recommended for use in children aged six months to four years old. Most parents and caregivers who make a first vaccine appointment for a child in this age group should expect the Pfizer infant vaccine will be offered.