What is Manitoba doing about the Hepatitis A outbreak?

Manitoba has expanded access to free hepatitis A vaccines for individuals six months and older in Peguis First Nation, as part of its response to an ongoing outbreak that has recorded 308 cases.

Who is eligible for the free Hepatitis A vaccine in Manitoba?

Eligibility now includes Peguis First Nation community members, anyone travelling to or working in Peguis, or anyone with household visitors from the community, in addition to residents of Garden Hill, St. Theresa Point, Wasagamack, and Red Sucker Lake.

How is Hepatitis A spread and prevented?

Hepatitis A can spread through contaminated water, food, and close personal contact. Prevention includes vaccination and practicing good hygiene, such as thorough handwashing, especially after using the toilet or handling diapers.

Home / Health / Manitoba Expands Free Hepatitis A Vaccines Amidst Outbreak

Manitoba Expands Free Hepatitis A Vaccines Amidst Outbreak

3 Feb

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Summary

Manitoba expanded free hepatitis A vaccines to Peguis First Nation.
Over 300 cases of hepatitis A have been recorded in Manitoba.
Vaccines are effective, even after exposure to the virus.

Manitoba has expanded its offering of free hepatitis A vaccines to include residents of Peguis First Nation. This initiative targets individuals six months of age and older, in response to an ongoing outbreak that has resulted in 308 cases as of January 18. The virus has largely spread through direct human contact.

The availability of these vaccines was previously limited to the communities of Garden Hill, St. Theresa Point, Wasagamack, and Red Sucker Lake. Eligibility has now been extended to Peguis First Nation members, individuals traveling to or employed in Peguis, and those with household visitors from the community.

Hepatitis A is an acute liver infection. Symptoms, when present, can include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dark urine, and jaundice. While many recover within weeks, severe illness can affect those with weakened immune systems, chronic liver disease, or individuals over 60.