Residents of Garden Hill, Manitoba, and nearby communities can now access free Hepatitis A vaccines as provincial health officials work to control an ongoing virus outbreak in the region. The free shots are available to anyone aged six months and older living in Garden Hill, St. Theresa Point, Wasagamack, and Red Sucker Lake, as well as people travelling to or from these areas.
According to Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, the outbreak has primarily affected the Island Lake region and recently expanded to other areas. While records from late 2025 showed 215 cases, more recent provincial data from February 2026 indicates the number of reported infections linked to the outbreak has risen to nearly 400 across the province. Health officials noted that the virus is spreading mainly through person-to-person contact rather than through food or water sources.
Local health centres and nursing stations in the fly-in communities are running the vaccination clinics to help prevent the virus from spreading further. Residents are also being encouraged to maintain regular hygiene habits, such as frequent handwashing, to protect themselves and their neighbours. Provincial health teams continue to monitor the situation closely as the virus persists in northern Manitoba.
The vaccine program has been expanded to include other impacted First Nations, including Peguis First Nation, as part of the provincial response. Community members who have had direct exposure to the virus or are planning to visit the affected areas are encouraged to contact their local health provider to arrange a shot. Information regarding the outbreak and prevention is also available through Health Links–Info Santé.
