Manitoba has been advised the province will receive 15,500 doses of vaccine next week, well below the expected 72,000 doses.
As a result, each region will be adjusting their plans according to their population and geographic realities. Mass immunization clinics may be postponed in some regions.
Many regions will continue to provide vaccine to people in the first priority group with a particular emphasis for people most at risk of severe illness. This includes targeting these individuals on the priority list:
• children aged six months to under five years old;
• anyone of Aboriginal ancestry (First Nations, Métis or Inuit);
• people under 55 with a severe chronic medical or other risk condition; and
• pregnant women.
This focuses on the key populations in Manitoba’s priority list who are most at risk of severe illness or death. For more details on how to access vaccine, please contact your local regional health authority.
The initial delivery from the federal government of 134,000 doses and a second delivery of
72,000 doses have already been distributed for use in clinics around the province. As of the end of day Oct. 29, there had been 92,901 flu shots administered in Manitoba.
Next week, Manitoba will take delivery of vaccine that does not have an adjuvant. This vaccine is for pregnant women. Manitoba expects to receive approximately 9,200 doses of the Australia-based vaccine obtained by the federal government.
Additional measures to help prevent flu infections include:
• Cover your cough by coughing into your elbow or sleeve or use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Place the tissue in the garbage.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Hand sanitizers may also be effective.
• Reduce the spread of germs. Limit touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Maintain your health by making healthy food choices, being physically active and getting enough sleep.
For more information on H1N1 flu, visit www.manitoba.ca/flu or call Health Links-Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257.
