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Meet Moriah – Immunization Nurse

Did you know The Link has an Immunization Nurse and Program that is open to the Community?

The Link’s Immunization Program is dedicated to boosting immunization rates among vulnerable populations. Through targeted education and outreach, it aims to raise vaccine uptake and decrease vaccine-preventable diseases in marginalized communities.

Located in downtown Winnipeg, the program prioritizes community, fostering partnerships for effective outreach. By providing accurate information and culturally competent care, the Immunization Program aims to bridge healthcare disparities and promote health equity among Indigenous and marginalized groups.

Meet Moriah: An Immunization Nurse Making A Difference In Winnipeg!

“My goal is to help empower young people in taking charge of their own health. It’s not a bad thing to have questions or concerns, but don’t let that stop you from having the conversation and getting the best information possible. And to apply this philosophy whether we’re talking about vaccines or anything else!”

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background as an Immunization Nurse?

I was born in Ghana, West Africa and raised in Ottawa. This fall, I’ll be celebrating 14 years as a nurse. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in various areas, including labor and delivery, postpartum, NICU, teen health, women’s health, pediatric neurology, and rare disease research—specifically with Rett Syndrome.

Fun fact: Growing up, I was very active in sports and played basketball at the University of Ottawa. I competed in the 2001 Francophonie Games with the Canadian Junior National Team. While at U of O, I even played against our current Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Uzoma Asagwara!

What inspired you to become an Immunization Nurse?

Vaccines are one of the most successful medical interventions in history, and vaccination is integral to nursing in all specialties. From labor and delivery to pediatric neurology, I’ve administered vaccines throughout my career. The success of vaccines can sometimes lead to complacency, as we no longer see many of these diseases. However, the post-COVID era has highlighted the importance of maintaining vigilance in protecting ourselves and others. Being an immunization nurse allows me to be part of this crucial work.

How long have you been involved in immunization efforts and what motivates you to continue this important work?

I’ve been involved in immunization efforts since the beginning of my nursing career, particularly in areas like childbirth, where pregnant people and infants are among the most vulnerable to illness. The ability to protect individuals from preventable diseases continues to motivate me every day.

Can you explain your role in this program and what your key responsibilities are?

My role in this project includes administering vaccines and identifying under-served populations. I work to ensure no one is overlooked, conducting immunization reviews with clients in our clinic, and reaching out to the community to raise awareness. Education is a key component of this project; it’s important that people receive accurate, reliable information about vaccinations so they can make informed decisions.

What excites you most about this program and its potential impact on the community?

I’m most excited about the opportunity to enhance cultural safety in healthcare and to provide education about vaccines across all stages of life. This funding we received for this project allows us to reach more people, especially those who may have been missed or have hesitations and to empower them with the tools they need to protect themselves and their families.

How do you plan to educate the community, especially the youth, about the importance of routine immunizations?

We aim to make use of every opportunity to engage with people. For example, we conduct immunization reviews during scheduled and walk-in appointments. We’ve also taken advantage of our annual flu clinics to inform people about routine vaccines, not only for themselves but for their families as well.

Another goal is to recruit community members as ambassadors. People are more likely to trust and listen to information from someone they know, so we hope to empower trusted community voices to share the message.

Additionally, we’re developing more educational materials to ensure the communities we serve have easy access to accurate information.

Why is it important to engage youth and their families in vaccination discussions?

Engaging youth and their families is crucial so that everyone feels heard and supported. Family discussions can help us understand concerns from different perspectives, creating a stronger foundation for trust and informed decision-making.

It’s essential that youth feel they can ask questions and express concerns, and that those conversations happen in a safe, supportive environment.

Can you speak to the health benefits of immunizations and how they help prevent serious diseases?

Vaccines introduce a very small amount of a virus (not enough to cause illness) to trigger an immune response. This primes the body to fight off the virus if encountered again.

A study published in The Lancet found that vaccines against 14 common pathogens have saved 154 million lives in the last five decades—at a rate of six lives every minute. Vaccines have cut infant mortality by 40% globally and by more than 50% in Africa.

Vaccines not only protect individuals but also help safeguard the community, especially those who cannot be vaccinated. Creating “herd immunity” is essential to protecting the most vulnerable.

Why should the community trust vaccines and see them as a vital tool in healthcare?

Vaccines are rigorously tested and continuously monitored for safety. We need to discuss the relative risks, highlighting the significant benefits vaccines provide in preventing widespread illness. Vaccines have proven their effectiveness in saving lives and reducing disease transmission.

How do you address concerns about vaccine safety and effectiveness, especially among hesitant parents and youth?

It’s important to acknowledge and respect people’s concerns. Dismissing concerns can create barriers, so we take a compassionate, informative approach. I always listen carefully and ask about specific worries. If someone is unsure, I share evidence-based information and discuss common myths, inviting open, ongoing conversations.

How can we reassure people that vaccines are safe and effective in protecting both individuals and communities?

We reassure people by explaining how vaccines are closely monitored for safety. I often provide statistics to highlight how adverse reactions are rare and emphasize the huge number of people vaccinated versus those who experience complications.

Community Impact:

How do you believe this project will help build trust and foster a sense of responsibility within the community when it comes to immunization?

This project takes a collaborative, respectful approach. By providing clear, accurate information and supporting informed decision-making, we help people feel confident in their choices regarding their health. When individuals feel empowered, they are more likely to take responsibility for their own health and the health of their loved ones.

How important is collaboration with other community stakeholders in this project?

Collaboration is vital, given Winnipeg’s diversity. We must respect the unique needs of different communities and work together with local stakeholders to address those needs. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work, and building relationships with other organizations ensures we can reach everyone effectively.

What message would you like to send to the community, especially to parents, guardians and youth, about the importance of vaccination?

It’s okay to have questions! As a nurse, I encourage you to be an active participant in your health and the health of those you care for. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider and have an open conversation so you can make an informed decision.

How can community members get involved in supporting immunization efforts and promoting this message?

The best way to support immunization efforts is to get vaccinated and stay informed!
Be a trusted example to those around you and encourage others to speak to their healthcare providers if they have questions.

If anyone is interested in becoming a community ambassador for the Immunization Project, they can contact me directly at moriah.marcogliese@thelinkmb.ca or 204-949-6524.

How to reach Moriah?

Email: moriah.marcogliese@thelinkmb.ca
Phone: 204-949-6524

When should I get Immunizations?

For routine vaccines:

  • Infants: two, four, six, 12, and 18 months
  • Preschool and school age: four to six years, Grade 6, Grade 8

For Adults, see us or your healthcare provider for an immunization review.

Vaccine schedules can be found on the Government of Manitoba website,  routine schedule or catch-up schedule

How to find out more info?

Come see us at 175 Mayfair Avenue, or check out the following websites:

Is there a cost?

No! Most vaccines including routine, seasonal flu and covid-19 are publicly funded. Click here for more information and to see a list.

Who can get immunized?

Anybody from newborns to the elderly can get vaccinated. However, there are circumstances where it may not be advisable depending on health status (ie. Pregnancy, immuno-compromised) and which vaccine. Therefore, it is important to have a discussion with a healthcare provider prior to vaccination.

How do I know which Immunizations I need?

It is best to review your vaccine records in order to know if you are up to date. You can do this by having an immunization review with a healthcare provider.

Or you can obtain your vaccination records. To obtain your records:

  • You can put in a request online
  • Or call the Central Immunization Records Clerk at 204-938-5347
  • When calling to request your Immunization record, please ensure you have the following information prepared:
  • Spelling of First and Last Name
  • Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • 9-digit MB Health Number
  • Daytime contact number