Winnipeg Homeless Shelters Vaccinate Staff Against Hepatitis A Outbreak
Winnipeg homeless shelters, including Street Links and Mino Pimatisiwin Sexual Wellness Lodge, are vaccinating staff and volunteers to curb a Hepatitis A outbreak. According to provincial data, 784 cases were reported by June 4, with four deaths in the province, prompting the government to expand vaccine eligibility to community workers in May.
Why are Winnipeg shelters vaccinating staff?
Staff members work in environments that facilitate the spread of the highly contagious liver infection. Dr. Brent Roussin, the province’s chief medical officer of health, states that overcrowded locations with limited access to clean water and hand hygiene products increase the risk of contraction.
Michelle Wesley, a five-year employee at Street Links, reported seeing numerous clients suffering from or recovering from Hepatitis A. Wesley sought vaccination to avoid spreading the virus within the tents and makeshift camps she visits during her outreach work.
According to Dr. Roussin, the virus is spreading primarily among non-immunized youth within Winnipeg’s homeless population. He noted that while vulnerable populations were eligible for the vaccine before the April 2025 outbreak began, the province expanded criteria in May to include community workers.
How is the vaccination effort being implemented?
Street Links organized a vaccination clinic at its St. Mary’s Road facility, where at least six employees were vaccinated. Marion Willis of Street Links noted that at least five patients treated for Hepatitis A were transferred to the organization’s housing program for hospitalized patients.
At the Mino Pimatisiwin Sexual Wellness Lodge, public health nurses conducted two walk-in clinics, including one in May. Director Laverne Gervais stated that 15 to 20 staff members have been vaccinated to protect both workers and visitors.
The North End Women’s Centre is planning to establish a clinic next week for staff members who wish to be vaccinated due to the heightened risks of their sector, according to a spokesperson for the organization.
What is the current scale of the outbreak?
A provincial spokesperson told CBC/Radio-Canada that 784 cases were reported as of June 4. The virus has caused four deaths within the province.
Dr. Roussin confirmed that the province’s vaccine supply was not a limiting factor in the decision to expand eligibility. He stated that a single dose of the vaccine provides up to 90% protection.
What may happen next?
Street Links is collaborating with public health authorities to organize at least one additional vaccination clinic in the coming weeks. Marion Willis indicated that this upcoming clinic could be open to all eligible individuals, including those experiencing homelessness.
Further clinics may be established across other community organizations as they follow the lead of the North End Women’s Centre and Mino Pimatisiwin in addressing the risk to frontline workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the vaccination rules changed in May?
The province expanded eligibility to include community workers assisting the homeless due to a significant increase in Hepatitis A cases in Winnipeg.
Who is most affected by the virus in Winnipeg?
According to Dr. Brent Roussin, a large number of cases are occurring within the homeless population, particularly among youth who have not been immunized.
How effective is the Hepatitis A vaccine?
Dr. Brent Roussin stated that a single dose of the vaccine offers protection of up to 90%.
Do you believe community-led vaccination clinics are the most effective way to reach vulnerable populations during an outbreak?