With the increase in cases of the new COVID-19 variant in Canada Manitoba public health officials are reminding all international travelers to be tested for COVID-19 immediately upon arriving in Manitoba. This is regardless of if they are displaying symptoms and whether they are visiting the province or are returning from out of the country.  Travelers should self isolate immediately upon arrival back in the province for the full 14 day self isolation period regardless of symptoms and test results.

They note at this time while early data suggests the new variant may be more transmissible there is no evidence the variant causes more severe symptoms of COVID-19 or affects vaccine effectiveness. Manitoba public health officials strongly advise that travel out of the province should be limited to essential purposes only.