Thompson residents can now get a free hepatitis A vaccine as the province prepares for the 2026 Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games in two northern First Nations. Manitoba Health expanded eligibility on July 3, 2026, for the shots to help protect anyone connected to the host communities of Norway House Cree Nation and Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation, where the games are happening this summer.
The free vaccine is available to people six months and older who live in those communities, anyone travelling there for work or the games including athletes, staff and volunteers, and residents with household visitors from those areas. The games ran July 8 to 12 in Norway House Cree Nation and continue August 11 to 13 in Sagkeeng Anicinabe Nation, bringing many visitors from across Manitoba.
In Thompson, appointments can be booked by calling 204-677-5350. Walk-ins are also accepted at Public Health Services on Thompson Drive South, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The expanded eligibility comes as Manitoba deals with a hepatitis A outbreak that started in April 2025. As of June 21, 2026, there have been 826 cases reported since September 2024, with 183 hospitalizations and seven deaths. The virus has spread from northern communities into places like Winnipeg, including among people experiencing homelessness. Officials note poor water and sewage systems in some remote areas have helped the illness spread.
The Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games are returning after a 15-year break, having been delayed from 2025 because of wildfires. Public health officials encourage anyone eligible to get the vaccine as soon as possible, as it takes time to build full protection.
