SUBMITTED
The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit conducted immunization record assessments for students in JK/SK, and for students ages 7 and 17 years old during the previous school year. Having up to date immunization records informs the Health Unit of vaccine coverage rates (those that have protection against these diseases), which allows the Health Unit to act swiftly to prevent additional cases should cases of a communicable disease occur in the school setting.
Over 6000 records assessed in the 2023-24 school year showed missing doses of required vaccines or a complete absence of an immunization record in the provincial immunization system. Letters were mailed to parents/guardians of these students with instructions how to access immunization appointments, how to upload up to date immunization records securely to the Health Unit or how to apply for an exemption from the legislation.
As of late July, over 1300 students still have a complete absence of an immunization record submitted to the Health Unit. Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act, Dr. Linna Li has signed an order of suspension for each of these students and these orders have been mailed out to families starting in early August.
The suspension from school is for 20 school days, starting on the first day of school (this varies by school board).
The suspension will be rescinded by the Health Unit when one of the following requirements is met by the parent/guardian:
1. Provide a record of immunization using the Health Unit online portal https://chkmkt.com/StudentVaccineRecords. The Health Unit does not accept submissions from apps such as CAN Immunize as often there are errors made when the parent transcribes the information. We require a copy of an official immunization record from a Health Care Provider.
2. Provide the Health Unit with a statement of medical exemption to exempt the student from immunization requirements.
3. Provide the Health Unit with a statement of conscience or religious belief affidavit to exempt the student from immunization requirements.
4. Submit proof of a booked immunization appointment to provide the student with the required vaccines by email to ImmunizationNursingSupport@healthunit.org
Parents/guardians needing assistance with this process are welcome to call 1-800-660-5853 ext. 2313 or send an email to ImmunizationNursingSupport@healthunit.org
The Health Unit has set up additional evening immunization clinics in late August at five locations. Families who have received a suspension letter are welcome to book into one of these clinics. The link to book an appointment is found on this page: https://healthunit.org/health-information/immunization/school-suspension-process-2024/.
With Pertussis cases rising in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark and Measles cases in Ontario, it is important that immunization records are up to date. This proactive measure will allow the Health Unit to quickly respond to cases in the school environment and help minimize school disruptions for students and staff this coming school year.
For more information on required immunizations for school and daycare attendance, please visit: https://healthunit.org/health-information/immunization/.
