WINNIPEG — Immunocompromised Manitobans will be able to receive a third dose of vaccine against COVID-19.

The province says third doses will be available for anyone whose immunity is moderately to severely weakened due to a medical condition or treatment.

That could include cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, people who were born with serious immune system dysfunctions or those living with untreated or advanced HIV-AIDS.  

Dr. Joss Reimer, medical lead for Manitoba's vaccination rollout, says the plan for third doses recognizes those who are at increased risk of severe illnesses. 

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommended last week that people who are immunocompromised should be immunized a third time. 

Third doses will also be available in Manitoba for travel purposes and for individuals who have received one or two doses of a vaccine that is not approved by Health Canada. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 15, 2021. 

The Canadian Press