Winnipeg health officials encourage people to get vaccinated against respiratory viruses
Winnipeg health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and RSV as respiratory season begins. The campaign emphasizes that immunization reduces severe illness and helps maintain community health.
Why it matters
Public health messaging is critical for managing seasonal viral surges and reducing the burden on local healthcare systems.
"Respiratory season is upon us," said Dr. Kayan Xu, a medical officer of health with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, during a news conference Friday.
The health authority is encouraging all eligible people to get vaccinated against influenza, which is commonly called the flu, as well as COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to reduce their chances of getting sick.
"Immunization is really important to protect us and our loved ones from severe illness caused by respiratory viruses, and it helps keep our entire community healthy," Xu said.
"That means less time away from meaningful and important life events."
All Manitobans can get flu and COVID-19 vaccines for free, the health authority said in a news release. Everyone six months and older is encouraged to get them.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in