March 17, 2021
Manitoba Launches #ProtectMB Campaign to Support COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake
The Manitoba government is launching a new campaign to engage directly with Manitobans and encourage COVID-19 vaccine uptake, Health and Seniors Care Minister Heather Stefanson announced today.
“This new campaign relies on ongoing research and outreach to ensure we provide accessible, fact-based information about vaccination,” said Stefanson. “We all have a role to play in stopping the spread of COVID-19 in our province. The vaccine will protect us and the people we love. I’d encourage Manitobans to sign-up online so they’re ready to be immunized when it’s their turn.”
The new campaign, called #ProtectMB, will include advertising, outreach and engagement to support the government’s vaccine efforts. As part of the #ProtectMB campaign, a new website launched today to provide information on vaccine eligibility and sites where people can be immunized, as well as sharing stories about vaccines, myth-busting information and real-time updates.
After signing up, #ProtectMB will provide Manitobans with updates on the vaccination program direct to their email inbox. In the case of eligibility or supply changes, an urgent message can be sent to ensure people have access to accurate and timely information. Campaign materials will also equip the keenest of Manitobans with messages and materials that will help them to encourage friends, family and their social networks to sign-up and get vaccinated as well.
The minister noted the campaign was developed based on ongoing research, including public opinion and EngageMB surveys about vaccine intention, which have reached nearly 100,000 Manitobans. In addition, the campaign was designed based on the input of thousands of Manitobans who were invited to share their perspectives on campaign language and design. As #ProtectMB continues, additional feedback will be incorporated and will guide future decisions and campaign direction.
Consultations and conversations are ongoing with stakeholder groups about the COVID-19 vaccine campaign. Additional targeted outreach with specific populations will ensure the broader #ProtectMB campaign can be refined and adapted to address and reflect their community’s concerns and questions.
Currently, more than six per cent of Manitobans have received one dose of the vaccine. Recent research shows that a further 63 per cent say they are keen to get the vaccine, and plan to get it as soon as they are eligible. Another 12 per cent say they are likely to get the vaccine but are not in a rush. Nine per cent say they have concerns about the vaccine and are undecided, while 10 per cent say they have no plans to get vaccinated.
For more information on vaccines in Manitoba and to sign up for regular updates, visit: ProtectMB.ca.
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