Home / Health / Manitoba Expands Hepatitis A Vaccine Eligibility Amid Outbreak
Manitoba Expands Hepatitis A Vaccine Eligibility Amid Outbreak
25 Jul
Summary
- Eligibility for free hepatitis A vaccine expanded in Manitoba.
- Outbreak primarily affected northern Manitoba and spread to Winnipeg.
- As of July 16, 2026, there have been 898 reported cases.
Free hepatitis A vaccine eligibility has been broadened in Manitoba as a persistent outbreak, declared in April 2025, continues.
As of July 16, 2026, the province has recorded 898 hepatitis A cases. This includes 197 hospitalizations, eight intensive care admissions, and seven fatalities. The outbreak initially concentrated in northern Manitoba communities, particularly those with compromised water and sewage infrastructure, making them susceptible to transmission.
The virus has since spread throughout the province, with a notable increase in cases in Winnipeg. Many affected individuals in Winnipeg have ties to outbreak-stricken communities or are experiencing homelessness. Shamattawa First Nation, located northeast of Winnipeg, recently declared a state of emergency due to the outbreak.
New eligibility criteria include individuals six months and older who live in, travel to, or have household visitors from an Indigenous community in Manitoba. Children born on or after January 1, 2010, meeting these criteria, remain eligible for a second vaccine dose. Access to the vaccine is available through primary care providers, public health offices, and health centers.
