Doctors’ offices across Manitoba are holding a joint event to support Manitobans in accessing COVID-19 immunizations and vaccine information. The Vax-a-Thon event will be held at a number of clinics on Friday, February 4.

​“We encourage Manitobans looking for their first, second or third dose, or for personalized advice about vaccines, to visit a doctor’s office on February 4,” said Dr. Kristjan Thompson, President of Doctors Manitoba. ​“Doctors can provide trusted advice about COVID-19 vaccines, and you will find a list of medical clinics participating across the province at Man​i​to​baVac​cine​.ca.”

Each doctor’s office has set their own vaccine clinic schedule. Most require appointments, but some are accepting walk-ins as well. A full list is available at Man​i​to​baVac​cine​.ca/​Feb4/. Anyone who is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine is invited to attend.

There is still widespread community transmission of COVID-19, and Omicron infections can be serious. Dr. Thompson highlighted the significant impact COVID-19 has had on Manitobans just this month:

• Over 35,000 have tested positive, though the actual number of infections could be eight to ten times higher;
  
• 1,206 have been admitted to hospital, or 48 people per day;
• 121 have died from COVID-19, or four to five people per day; and
  
• Hundreds have had surgeries and medical tests postponed.

“Getting vaccinated and boosted is the best defense against COVID-19,” explained Dr. Candace Bradshaw, President-Elect for Doctors Manitoba and a family physician offering immunizations in her practice. ​“With over 2.7 million doses administered in Manitoba, and over 9.9 billion doses worldwide, physicians continue to trust the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and we strongly recommend them.

Dr. Bradshaw encouraged Manitobans who are unsure about the vaccine, or have delayed getting their first, second or booster shot, to talk to their doctor or to contact one of the clinics participating in the Vax-a-Thon.
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