Deadline approaching for student immunization records
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is urging secondary students to provide up-to-date immunization records or submit a medical exemption form or affidavit to the health unit before Sept. 26, 2023, to avoid suspension from school.
The health unit says that under the Immunization of School Pupils Act, public health units are required to maintain vaccine records for every student attending school and enforce suspension for incomplete vaccine information. There are currently still 2,700 outstanding immunization records for students in Grades 11 and 12 across Simcoe Muskoka.
Dr. Colin Lee, associate medical officer at the health unit says “Having up-to-date immunizations helps to ensure that students have the best protection against serious vaccine preventable diseases and reduces the risk of outbreaks in schools.”
Families who do not have a healthcare provider can attend walk in clinics between September 25th-29th from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at any of the health unit’s offices in Gravenhurst, and Huntsville.
Children and youth enrolled in school in Ontario must have proof of immunization against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (for those born in 2010 and after) and meningococcal disease, unless there is a valid exemption.
