Moderna Bivalent Vaccine Available now at Fisher River Health Centre

Manitoba Health is announcing the first groups who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 bivalent vaccine, which was approved by Health Canada earlier this week for people aged 18 and older. Bivalent means this vaccine has been developed to provide protection against two strains of COVID-19: the original strain of the virus and the omicron variant.

Based on expected vaccine shipments and public health recommendations on who should receive the vaccine first, initial eligibility criteria includes:

– adults aged 65 or older;
– Indigenous people aged 18 or older
– adults of any age with higher-risk medical conditions, including people who are
immunocompromised due to a health condition or medication;
– health-care workers aged 18 or older; and
– residents of personal care homes and other congregate living facilities including assisted living, group homes, shelters and correctional facilities.

Individuals must complete their primary series of vaccine (usually two doses) before they can receive the bivalent vaccine. It is recommended to wait six months from the last dose of vaccine or COVID-19 infection. However, individuals who meet the criteria can receive the bivalent vaccine after a minimum of three months, if they feel they are at increased risk. The bivalent
vaccine can be given at the same time as other immunizations. This will include the seasonal flu vaccine, once it becomes available this fall.

Please call FRHC (204)645-2689 to book an appointment.