Manitoba resumes mandatory masking and expands proof of vaccination requirements

The Manitoba government has just announced new proactive measures intended to protect against a fourth COVID-19 wave, including a return to mandatory masks in all indoor places, and new proof of vaccination requirements for more locations.

Mandatory Mask Requirement Resumes Tomorrow

As of Saturday, August 28, 2021, mandatory masks will once again be required for all indoor settings, including retail stores. The Health Order is expected to be similar to prior mask mandates, with an expectation that retailers remind non-complying customers of the mandatory mask requirement using signage and verbal reminders, however, will not be expected to act as enforcement agents.

Expanded Use of Vaccine Passports as of September 3, 2021

Manitoba is also expanding the use of the province’s vaccine passports. While not applying to retail stores, as of September 3, 2021, only those that provide proof of being fully vaccinated will be permitted to access the following businesses, services and events:

• Restaurants (sit-down indoor and patio dining);
• Movie theatres;
• Nightclubs and all other licensed premises;
• Fitness centres and gyms
• Indoor sporting and recreational facilities (excluding youth recreational sport);
• and, organized indoor group recreational classes and activities, and indoor recreational businesses.

Children 11 and under who are not eligible to be immunized are exempt, as long as they are attending the site with a fully immunized adult.

Over 76% of Manitoba’s are currently fully vaccinated and have easy access to a digital and physical immunization card (Vaccine Passport) that displays a person’s first and last name along with a personalized QR code.