Back-To-School Shot Reminder

Routine immunizations help protect children against illnesses such as tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. McDermott also highlighted measles as a growing concern, noting outbreaks have re-emerged in some regions.

“We’ve seen measles has been coming back. And so that is an important one to flag. And we also know that there’s a really amazing time to be alive where we can prevent cancer with immunization. And so some children will also be getting immunizations for HPV,” he said.

Northern Health says maintaining strong vaccination rates is important not only for individual protection, but also for community health. When vaccination rates fall, the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases increases.

“As we see vaccination rates decline among diseases that are vaccine preventable, we expect to see increases in those diseases and particularly among people who are not vaccinated,” McDermott said.

Parents who are unsure whether their children are current on their immunizations can contact their local public health unit or access records online through the Health Gateway. Northern Health says the beginning of the school year is an ideal time to book appointments and ensure children are protected for the months ahead.

by Nick Dube

Back-To-School Shot Reminder

What's Trending