When flu season hits, the Manitoba government is making sure more people are protected from serious illness.
The government announced on Wednesday that it is expanding eligibility for the high-dose flu vaccine to include all adults aged 65 and over.
“Planning is already underway for this fall’s seasonal flu campaign, and this is an important change that will protect more seniors,” Health Minister Audrey Gordon said in a media release.
The vaccine is currently given to people 65 and older who meet eligibility requirements, such as those living in long-term facilities or assisted living facilities.
“Older people are at higher risk of flu complications, so protecting seniors is especially important,” said Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Scott Johnston in a news release.
The government said this change is in line with the recommendations of the National Immunization Advisory Committee.
“There is good evidence that the high-dose flu vaccine provides better protection for older adults than the standard-dose flu vaccine,” said Dr. Brent Rusin, the province’s chief public health officer, in a news release.
He added that expanding eligibility would help improve outcomes across the age group and reduce morbidity, hospitalizations and deaths.
High-dose and standard flu shots are available to eligible Manitobans free of charge.
The province said more information about the flu vaccine campaign will be released in the coming months.
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