Flu Vaccine

Respiratory illness season arrives every fall in Manitoba and lasts through the winter. 

Most people who experience the flu have mild to moderate symptoms, however, it can cause serious medical complications and lead to death. Older adults or people who already have medical conditions are at greater risk. 

Vaccination is one of the most important ways to protect yourself from getting sick or experiencing serious complications from the flu. Getting vaccinated also helps protect others from becoming infected.

What is seasonal influenza?

Seasonal influenza (the flu) is a respiratory infection caused by a virus. The flu may seem similar to other respiratory viruses or a cold, however, the symptoms are usually worse and include

sudden high fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, sore throat and cough. Nausea and upset stomach may also occur, especially in children.

What is the flu vaccine?
Every year, scientists track the global spread of flu. They use this data to predict which flu strains will likely cause the most illness in the next flu season. These strains are then used to develop the flu vaccine for that year. This means the vaccine can be different each year. 

Manitoba currently offers standard- and high-dose flu vaccines, effective in protecting against four flu strains predicted to cause the most flu illness this season. Both vaccines are given by injection (needle). Neither vaccine has the live flu virus in it. Vaccines help your body get ready to fight exposure to the flu by getting your immune system ready.

Who should get the flu vaccine? 

An annual flu vaccine is recommended and available free of charge to all Manitobans six months of age and older. A high-dose flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 65 and older. The high dose contains four times the amount of influenza virus proteins (or antigens) for a stronger immune response.

When should you get the flu vaccine?

You should get immunized early in the fall before the flu starts circulating, though it’s still helpful part way through the season too. Because the flu vaccine is different every year, and the protection provided by the vaccine decreases over time, it is important to get the flu vaccine every year. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to start fully working. You can get other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine, at the same time or before or after the flu vaccine. 

📑 See the Public Health Fact Sheet on Influenza Vaccine.

Side effects

Some individuals experience mild side effects after receiving this vaccine. This includes soreness, redness or swelling where the vaccine was given. Sometimes people can feel tired, have a headache, lose their appetite or develop a low grade fever. These side effects generally last a day or two. Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can be given for fever or soreness. Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin®) should NEVER be given to children because it can cause a severe liver and brain disease called Reye’s Syndrome.

In very rare circumstances, a severe allergic reaction can occur, including hives, heavy breathing, or swelling of the throat or face. This is why individuals are asked to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving a vaccine, so they can be monitored for a serious allergic reaction.

Where can I get vaccinated?

Seasonal vaccines are available across Manitoba for eligible Manitobans at no cost.

Here’s how to find your seasonal vaccines:

1. Call your family doctor’s office to check availability.

2. Check with nearby doctor’s offices or walk-in clinics for availability.

3. You can also see locations on this provincial vaccine finder map.

Learn more

Vaccine-Preventable Respiratory Illnesses | Province of Manitoba

Routine Immunization Schedules | Province of Manitoba