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Manitoba Meningitis: 4 Deaths as Cases Surge
15 Jan
Summary
- Four Manitobans died from invasive meningococcal disease in 2025.
- Cases disproportionately affected Indigenous communities in Northern Health Region.
- Infants under one year old are identified as the highest-risk group.
Manitoba experienced a concerning rise in invasive meningococcal disease cases last year, resulting in four fatalities. The province confirmed 23 cases of the W strain, a fivefold increase over expected numbers. These outbreaks have disproportionately impacted Indigenous communities within the Northern Health Region, signaling a critical public health challenge.
Invasive meningococcal disease, spread through respiratory droplets and close personal contact, presents severe symptoms like dark rashes, fever, and stiff necks, potentially leading to long-term effects or death. Health officials are urging all Manitobans to review their vaccination status, especially for infants and children, to prevent further spread.
Routine meningococcal vaccinations are administered at 12 months and in Grade 6. However, special provisions exist for infants aged six weeks to 12 months in Indigenous communities. Manitoba Health encourages proactive immunization to safeguard vulnerable populations against this potentially fatal illness.
