Booster shots recommended for Manitobans who got AstraZeneca doses, frontline health-care workers

The province has confirmed COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are being recommended for frontline health-care workers and Manitobans who have two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

The province has confirmed COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are being recommended for frontline health-care workers and Manitobans who have two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

On Wednesday, Dr. Joss Reimer, the medical lead of Manitoba's Vaccine Implementation Task Force, said third doses are being recommended for all health-care workers and volunteers who have direct contact with patients, residents, and clients.

She said this includes all First Nations health-care workers, including traditional healers and knowledge keepers.

"For many health-care workers, it has been quite a few months since their last dose of the vaccine," Reimer said.

"When we are facing a fourth wave and we do know that every health-care worker is critical to be able to provide services to Manitobans, we want to offer this booster to use every tool in the toolbox to support the health-care system."

Reimer said receiving a booster shot is voluntary.

"Health-care personnel who do not receive this third dose are still considered to be fully immunized and this is not a part of the requirements for testing or immunization," she said.