Dr. David Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health says we need to raise the percentage of children who have up-to-date immunizations. The more kids that are vaccinated, the lower the chance of a dangerous outbreak. And, despite an 85 per cent immunization rate in Ontario, he says the percentages should be higher.
Williams says these important decisions are the responsibility of the parents or guardians of the child, and urges that all children have their vaccinations current before the school year begins. Ontario’s vaccination schedule protects against 17 contagious illnesses – everything from polio to measles. The Chief Medical Officer says that those who decide against vaccinations are putting their children at risk and should talk to a medical professional to gather more information.
For more information, see Ontario’s Routine Immunization Schedule.
There are exceptions. Under Ontario law, certain vaccinations and documentation need to be up to date for children to attend school. If they can’t be vaccinated for medical or non-medical reasons, they need a valid exemption.
Williams adds that there is no way of knowing how strong a child’s immune system might be, making vaccinations all the more crucial. An outbreak of illness, such as measles, mumps or whooping cough can be serious (and even tragic) for those not vaccinated. Additionally, children will not be allowed to stay in school if their immunization records are not up-to-date.
