Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) officials are reminding high school students to make sure their shots are up to date.
The week of Feb. 1, they sent letters to students who have incomplete immunization records asking them to confirm with public health if they have had the required shots.
If they haven’t had the shots, they need to get them from their doctor or a public health clinic. After March 22, students who do not have the required shots will be suspended from school.
Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act, public health must keep immunization records of all students in the region.
“When a child gets a shot at their doctor’s office, the parent is responsible for letting Public Health know,” said Susan Otten, Manager of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Program. “Doctors’ offices and schools cannot forward this information.”
You can update your child’s immunization records with public health by calling 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4662, faxing 519-836-7215 or emailing info@wdghu.org. Check your child’s yellow immunization card or go to www.wdghu.org for the shots they need.
If you choose not to have your child vaccinated, you must have a notarized exemption form on file with public health. Your child can be exempt if you object to immunization based on your medical or religious beliefs. Be sure to keep a copy of your child’s exemption form.
Beginning March 1, WDGPH will offer catch-up clinics at each of the local high schools. For a list of clinic dates and locations, visit www.wdghu.org.
