The Manitoba Newborn Screening Program is expanding to include screening for Severe Combined Immune Deficiency (SCID).

SCID is a group of rare genetic diseases that affects a child’s immune system.

About one in 60,000 newborns are affected worldwide but in Manitoba one in 16,000 newborns are born with SCID.

“The expansion of the program is expected to ensure children get the care they need as soon as possible,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen.  “Newborn screening looks for easily detectable and preventable diseases linked to inherited and non-heritable disorders.  Many of these conditions are very uncommon or rare.  Early detection and treatment can help prevent irreversible impacts to a child.”

According to the province 50% of those diagnosed with SCID in Manitoba are from northern cree and mennonite populations. In many cases there are mutations that are specific to Manitoba.

Children who are SCID-positive are not expected to live beyond two years of age without being treated with a bone marrow transplant. Those with SCID are also at a high risk of poor health if they are immunized using live vaccines such as tuberculosis or measles/mumps/rubella.

The program is set to begin screening in early 2020 according to the minister.