In a bold enforcement of Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA), Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has suspended a staggering 461 students across the regions of Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk.

The decision, effective immediately, targets those with incomplete immunization records or students who have not received the necessary vaccinations to attend school.

A closer look at the numbers reveals an alarming trend.

Among the suspended students, Brantford-Brant is most affected, with 291 students from the birth cohorts of 2008, 2013, and 2017 facing suspension. Meanwhile, Haldimand-Norfolk sees 170 students from the 2008, 2016, and 2017 birth cohorts caught in the vaccination crosshairs.

Earlier this year, GEPH had issued 2,813 suspension orders.

In an effort to achieve compliance, GEPH introduced extensive outreach and immunization clinics, resulting in an impressive 84% of affected students updating their records or receiving vaccinations. However, this still leaves a concerning 16% of students facing suspension for non-compliance.

In a bid to support those suspended, Grand Erie Public Health is actively encouraging students to update their vaccination records.

Parents can ensure their child receives the necessary immunizations or secure valid exemptions to return to school.

For the convenience of Brantford-Brant students, immunization services are available at Lynden Park Mall.

The services will be open during the following dates and times: Tuesday, March 25 & Wednesday, March 26 (8 a.m. – 6 p.m.), Thursday, March 27 & Friday, March 28 (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.). Parents can make appointments by calling 519-753-4937 ext. 451 or simply drop in with their child.

Similarly, students from Haldimand-Norfolk can access vaccine clinics at the GEPH Simcoe Office.

The location is at 185 Robinson St. in Simcoe on Friday, March 28 (1 p.m. – 4 p.m.). Appointments will also be available during the week of March 25 – March 28. Interested parents can call 519-426-6170 ext. 3214 or email vpdhn@geph.ca to secure a spot.

As GEPH continues its efforts to ensure student health and safety.

community members are left to wonder: will these suspensions prompt a serious awakening among parents regarding the importance of vaccinations? The stakes could not be higher for the health of our children—and their education hangs in the balance.