HPPH reminding parents to update their child's immunization records to avoid school suspension

Huron Perth, ON – The Immunization team at Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is reminding parents to update their child’s immunization records. Nearly 2,900 records remain incomplete, down from the initial 5100.

These students are either missing immunizations required for school attendance, their immunizations have not been reported to public health, or they do not have a valid exemption on file. Students with incomplete immunization records may be suspended from school under the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA).

ISPA requires elementary and secondary school students to be immunized against specific diseases to attend school. The purpose of the Act is to protect the health of children against these preventable diseases.

The increase in measles activity globally, and recent cases in Ontario, reminds us how important it is to stay up to date with immunizations. The list of ISPA required immunizations includes immunization against measles. The higher the number of vaccinated students, the more protection all students have from potentially serious diseases.

In January, HPPH sent letters to parents/legal guardians of students whose immunization records were incomplete. Parents who have not yet responded to this first notice will now receive a phone call from a public health nurse.

Parents who received a letter are asked to do one of the following:

• If your child is up to date on their immunizations, go to www.hpph.ca/icon to report the required information online, or call HPPH at 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3558.
• If your child is not up to date on their vaccinations, contact your healthcare provider and/or HPPH. HPPH is holding immunization clinics to get students caught up. You can book an appointment online at www.hpph.ca/catchup or call HPPH at 1-888-221-2133 ext 3558. Parents are encouraged to book early as appointments are limited.

In April, HPPH will mail suspension notices to students who have not provided proof of up-to-date immunizations or a valid exemption. School suspensions will begin on May 23, 2024.

Parents must provide proof of their child’s immunizations, or a valid exemption, to public health. Public health and healthcare providers do not share the same system for documenting immunizations, so it is important to let HPPH know if your child has received an immunization at their primary care provider’s office.