Urgent Call for Parents: Don’t Neglect Your Child’s Immunization Records!

In a critical reminder for parents and guardians, Niagara Region Public Health is stressing the importance of reviewing and updating children's immunization records in accordance with the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). This provincial legislation requires all students in Ontario to be vaccinated against nine diseases, or to have valid exemptions, in order to attend school. The goal is clear: to maintain high vaccination rates that protect our children, minimize school disruptions, and prevent potential outbreaks.

Dr. Azim Kasmani, the Medical Officer of Health for Niagara Region, emphasizes, "Keeping immunization records up to date is vital for protecting children and supporting the health of our community." Accurate immunization records not only safeguard your child but also aid public health officials in swiftly responding to any outbreak situations, ensuring the safety of all students.

Why Parents Must Act Now

It is critical to note that parents and guardians are responsible for submitting immunization updates directly to Public Health, as healthcare providers and schools do not automatically handle this on your behalf. Families are strongly encouraged to take the initiative in reviewing and updating their children’s immunization records to ensure compliance.

Currently, Public Health is addressing incomplete immunization records for over 13,000 students, often a result of vaccinations not being reported or missing information. Families will only receive reminder notifications if their child has an incomplete record.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your Child’s Immunization Record

Updating your child’s immunization record is straightforward with the help of Immunization Connect (ICON), a secure online platform designed for tracking and reporting immunizations. Follow these simple steps: 1. Log into Immunization Connect to check your child's immunization history. 2. Look for the “Immunizations Needed” section to identify any overdue vaccines based on Ontario’s routine vaccination schedule. 3. Note that while some vaccines are mandatory under ISPA, others such as the free hepatitis B and HPV vaccines offered to Grade 7 students are highly recommended. 4. Report any vaccinations that have been administered since the last update. 5. Schedule an appointment for any missing vaccines at your healthcare provider, walk-in clinics (remember to check for vaccine availability), or attend a Public Health vaccination clinic.

Keep an eye out for vaccination clinics being hosted at local secondary schools; students can attend clinics only at their respective schools. For updates, parents should monitor communications from Public Health regarding vaccination dates and locations.

Understanding Exemptions

If your child has a valid exemption on file with Public Health, you will not receive any communications regarding the vaccine(s) from which they are exempt. It's important to remember that exemption forms for childcare expire when a child enters school in September, necessitating the completion of a new exemption process for school-aged children.

Improving Community Immunization Coverage

Annual reviews of immunization records have proven essential in enhancing vaccination coverage throughout the Niagara Region. Last year, community efforts led to impressive improvements in the following vaccination rates: - Measles: Increased from 78% to 92% - Polio: Increased from 76% to 93% - Varicella (chickenpox): Increased from 66% to 91%.

With these numbers in mind, it is crucial not to delay: check your child’s immunization record today and report any missing vaccinations to Public Health immediately. Securing and maintaining up-to-date immunizations is fundamental for your child’s health and well-being.

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions about immunization records, requirements, exemptions, or clinic appointments, don’t hesitate to visit the Niagara Region Public Health website or call 905-688-8248 ext. 7425 to speak with a public health nurse. Taking this proactive step can make a significant difference for your child and the wider community!