Parents of elementary students are reminded to update their child's immunization records to avoid suspension
On March 25, elementary students with immunization records that are not up-to-date will be suspended from school.
It’s not too late for parents to call Public Health to update their child’s record of immunization.
During the fall of 2019, Public Health sent 9,385 notices to parents with children whose immunization records were not up-to-date with Region of Waterloo Public Health.
Public Health is sending out 5650 suspension orders this week.
Parents who receive a suspension order have up until March 25, 2020 to provide proof of immunization or a valid exemption to Public Health. Failing to do so, their child will be suspended from school for a period of up to 20 days.
While suspension can last up to 20 days, Region of Waterloo Public Health works with parents to update the records as soon as possible to prevent suspension, or limit the length of suspension.
Region of Waterloo Public Health is required to collect, review and maintain the immunization records of all students attending school in Waterloo Region. This is done to ensure the immunization status of all children is up-to-date to prevent illnesses in the event of a vaccine preventable disease outbreak.
The Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) requires students be immunized against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox (for those born after 2010) and meningococcal disease. Records of immunization must be provided to Public Health. Parents may contact their healthcare provider or family physician to obtain immunization records and/or immunizations.
With appropriate legal documentation, exemptions based on medical or conscience/religious reasons are allowed. Parents can call Public Health at 519-575-4400 ext. 5003 to speak to a nurse about these requirements.
“Enforcing the law ensures the community maintains its already high vaccine coverage rates.” says David Aoki, Manager Vaccine Preventable Disease. “Suspension is not the goal. By submitting your records or an exemption early, parents can prevent suspension and also ensure the community is protected.”
Region of Waterloo Public Health also launched Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) in 2019 so parents can view their children’s immunization records online. To access ICON, parents can visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/updateimmunizations.
Parents can make an appointment by calling 519-575-4400 ext. 5003. A listing of Walk-in Clinics at Region of Waterloo Public Health can be found on our website.
For more information, please contact our Vaccine Information Line at 519-575-4400 ext. 5003.
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Media contact:
Julie Kalbfleisch
Manager, Information & Communications
Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services
519-575-4400 ext. 2270