Measles Outbreak Prompts Expanded Vaccine Access
Manitoba pharmacists are now authorized to administer the measles vaccine, a fast‑tracked move as the province confronts its worst measles outbreak in decades. More than 400 cases have been reported since March 21, leading to over three dozen hospitalizations. Four patients are currently in intensive care, and more than half of all cases involve children under 10.
Meningitis Cases Raise Ongoing Concern
Meningitis remains on Manitoba’s public‑health radar after several years of elevated case numbers. Chief public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin confirmed two cases so far this year—one in January and one in February. Public health has not disclosed where the cases occurred, but Roussin noted that recent infections have primarily affected young people in Winnipeg and northern First Nations communities.
Brandon ICU Nears Completion, Room to Honour Jordan Old
A room in Brandon’s new 16‑bed intensive care unit will be named in memory of Jordan Old, thanks to more than $30,000 raised last year through an annual memorial golf tournament organized by his family and friends. The BRHC Foundation says room allocations are underway as construction enters its final phase. Crews are completing interior work and installing equipment ahead of a planned summer opening. Prairie Mountain Health says the expanded ICU will increase capacity and modernize critical‑care services, allowing more Westman patients to receive life‑saving treatment closer to home.
Ice Conditions Deteriorating Across Southern Manitoba
The province is warning that warming temperatures are weakening ice on rivers and lakes across southern Manitoba. Officials say ice may look stable but is thin and unpredictable, and activities such as sledding and snowmobiling on waterways should be avoided. Emergency teams are working with municipalities and First Nations on spring‑flood preparedness as river flows continue to rise.
RCMP Warn of World Cup Ticket and Travel Scams
RCMP are cautioning Westman residents about World Cup‑related scams already appearing online. Fake tickets, fraudulent rentals, and bogus travel deals have been spotted on platforms like Marketplace and Kijiji as fans plan trips to Winnipeg and other host cities. Police urge Manitobans to purchase only through official FIFA channels and to verify any travel or accommodation listings before sending money.
Royal Manitoba Winter Fair Draws Big Crowds
Strong attendance marked the opening of the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair at the Keystone Centre, featuring the Wawanesa Insurance Accumulator, bustling ag‑education exhibits, and more than 300 trade‑show vendors. Families enjoyed crowd favourites including the Canine Circus, Truco Trick Riders, Doodles the Clown, and Dogs Do Magic, with mascots and the Easter Bunny adding to the Spring Break excitement. Today’s lineup includes the Manitoba Cup show‑jumping event, Wayne Lee Hypnosis, Mounted Shooters, Juggles & Spinja, Ring Master K, the Sweet Grass Ojibway Drum Group & Dancers, and expanded kids’ programming.
