As we head into fall and winter, influenza (flu), COVID-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) will be circulating in our communities. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalizations, and the spread of these viruses. Everyone six months of age and older is encouraged to receive their annual flu shot and the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Those 65 years of age and older are eligible for an enhanced flu vaccine that provides more protection than the standard dose flu vaccine, and should also ask if they are eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine to protect against pneumococcal pneumonia.

New this year, RSV immunization is available for more people at higher risk. All infants born between October 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026 are eligible for a dose of nirsevimab, an antibody that helps protect against severe RSV illness. In addition, certain adults aged 60 and over — including those living in or moving into personal care homes — are eligible for the RSV vaccine. RSV can be especially dangerous for newborns, older adults, and people with certain underlying health conditions.

Vaccines are safe, effective, and available across Manitoba. To find a nearby clinic or pharmacy, visit the Vaccine Finder or contact your local public health office. Information about vaccine clinics in the Southern Health-Santé Sud region can be found here.

By getting vaccinated and practicing healthy habits like handwashing and staying home when sick, you can help protect yourself, your family, and your community this season.

Following news that the Canadian Union of Postal Workers has issued a national strike effective immediately, Manitoba’s health system stands prepared for this service disruption.

As a result of the strike, all staff and clinics have ceased use of Canada Post until further notice. This includes the distribution of patient supplies, notably for clients in the Manitoba Ostomy and Manitoba Home Nutrition Program, patient appointment letters and pre-appointment information.

Patients with upcoming appointments will instead be contacted by phone and / or email and provided with information in advance of their appointments.

Patients with upcoming clinic appointments at Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg may receive their appointment confirmation by text message. The text messages, which will originate from a Manitoba 431 phone number, will not include patient information and will only identify the facility, date and time of the scheduled appointment. Messages will include the clinic phone number in the event patients wish to confirm their appointment by phone.

Patients will never be asked to disclose financial information over the phone or via email. Do not engage with anyone who says they require financial information before a health appointment. If patients have questions about the legitimacy of a call, they are encouraged to contact their clinic or care provider directly.

Information packages, facility maps and other important information that is generally sent by mail to patients and clients will be located on regional and / or facility websites for easy patient access.

If you experience a change in condition, need to change or cancel your appointment, or have questions about an upcoming visit, please contact your clinic or primary care provider.

We anticipate clinics will be experiencing a higher-than-normal volume of calls and appreciate your patience during this time.

For more information about health system operations during a Canada Post labour disruption, please visit: Canada Post Service Disruption Information – Shared Health. We also encourage the public to follow Shared Health’s social media channels for program-specific updates and information.