On March 27, elementary students with immunization records still not up-to-date will be suspended from school.
During the fall of 2018, Public Health sent 9,595 notices to parents with children who have immunization records that are not up-to-date with Region of Waterloo Public Health.
To date, more than half of these students' records are still outstanding. Public Health is sending out 6,129 suspension orders this week.
It's not too late for parents to call Public Health to update their child's record/immunization.
Parents who receive a suspension order have up until March 26, 2019 to provide proof of immunization or a valid exemption to Public Health or their child will be suspended from school for a period of up to 20 days. Proof of immunization can be provided by phone, fax or online.
While suspension can last up to 20 days, Public Health works with parents to get records up-to-date as soon as possible, to prevent 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.
With appropriate legal documentation, exemptions based on medical or conscience/religious reasons are allowed.
If parents are requesting an exemption based on conscience/religious reasons, the new legislation (2017) requires parents to first complete an education session at Public Health before completing the exemption paperwork. If parents are requesting non-medical exemptions for their child/children, please contact Public Health at 519-575-4400 ext. 5003 to arrange a session or speak to a nurse about this requirement.
"Enforcing the law ensures children and our community are protected against vaccine preventable diseases," says David Aoki, Manager Vaccine Preventable Disease. "Parents need to provide proof of immunization or an exemption directly to Public Health."
Parents may contact their healthcare provider or family physician to obtain immunization records and/or immunizations. For those without a family physician, Public Health offers immunization clinics in both Waterloo and Cambridge offices by appointment. Parents can make an appointment for immunization by calling 519-575-4400 ext. 5003.
For more information, please contact our Vaccine Information Line at 519-575-4400 ext. 5003.
