Manitoba public health reported 143 new cases of COVID-19 this afternoon with only five of those in the Northern region.  Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin says with increasing case numbers in several regions stronger restrictions are an option but that step hasn’t been taken yet.  He notes if you want to see the removal of restrictions get vaccinated if you haven’t already.  He says it’s disappointing and frustrating to him and to all Manitobans to have renewed talk of greater restrictions because we’ve been at this for so long but they’re going to need to ask Manitobans for their further adherence and further co-operation as we navigate this fourth wave.

Manitoba is expanding access to a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to all adults 18 or older.  A minimum of six months is required between second and third doses. The province is recommending the third dose to individuals who are at increased risk of serious illness from COVID-19, their caregivers and close contacts.