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For immediate release
May 3, 2021
Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is issuing this statement to respond to the announcement made by the Province of Manitoba that all Indigenous people ages 18 and over are now eligible to book a vaccine appointment.
“We know from the data gathered by the Manitoba First Nations Pandemic Response Coordination Team that First Nations people have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 virus,” shared Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “I commend the Indigenous health experts who have advocated for the expansion of the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to include all Indigenous adults in Manitoba.”
Today’s announcement means that any MKO citizen who is aged 18 and over and living in Manitoba can call 1-844-626-8222 to book their vaccine appointment or they can book an appointment online at https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibility-criteria.html.
Today’s expanded criteria helps to reach people living on or off reserve. Appointments are available at super sites in Dauphin, Steinbach, Winnipeg, Brandon, Thompson, Selkirk, and Morden. There are also Indigenous pop-up sites in Winnipeg, Brandon, Thompson, and Portage la Prairie.
“I received my first dose of my COVID-19 vaccine in March. Having a vaccine provides me with a sense of hope,” shared Grand Chief Settee. “I look forward to seeing all MKO citizens ages 18 plus have the opportunity to get vaccinated in the near future. I encourage you to learn as much as you can about it. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions. Let’s work together to protect our communities.”
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For more information:
Melanie Ferris, MKO Communications
Cell: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]
