Manitoba's chief public health officer is issuing a stark warning as the province enters the peak season for respiratory illnesses. Dr. Brent Roussin is urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza, citing significant and rising activity across the region.
Winter Virus Season in Full Swing
In a recent briefing, Dr. Brent Roussin, the Chief Provincial Public Health Officer for Manitoba, provided a comprehensive overview of the health threats facing citizens this winter. The update, delivered on December 3, 2025, highlighted a concerning uptick in flu cases, alongside the ongoing circulation of other pathogens like RSV, measles, and COVID-19.
Roussin emphasized that influenza is currently the most pressing concern for healthcare providers. The term significant influenza activity was used to describe the current situation, indicating that virus transmission is widespread and exceeding baseline levels. This trend aligns with reports from other parts of the country, including Ottawa, where a children's hospital has noted a concerning rise in flu cases and hospitalizations.
A Multi-Threat Respiratory Season
The public health warning extends beyond just the flu. Dr. Roussin's breakdown serves as a reminder that winter traditionally brings a convergence of respiratory viruses. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) poses a particular risk to young children and older adults, while measles outbreaks remain a persistent threat in under-vaccinated communities.
COVID-19 also continues to be part of the public health landscape, requiring ongoing vigilance. The simultaneous spread of these illnesses can place immense strain on the healthcare system, leading to increased hospital admissions and longer wait times for care.
Vaccination as the Primary Defense
The core message from Manitoba's top doctor is clear and urgent: vaccination is the most effective tool available to mitigate the impact of this season's viruses. The annual flu shot is recommended for nearly everyone aged six months and older, offering protection against the strains predicted to be most common.
"We are strongly encouraging all Manitobans to get their influenza vaccine," Roussin stated. The call to action is timed to allow individuals to build immunity before the holiday season, when gatherings and travel can accelerate virus transmission. Health officials also remind the public that staying home when sick, practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces are crucial supplementary measures.
As the weather turns colder and people spend more time indoors, public health experts across Canada are monitoring virus trends closely. The situation in Manitoba underscores a national need for proactive health measures to ensure hospitals and clinics are not overwhelmed during the challenging winter months.
