Can you believe we are halfway through August already? As you are gearing up for your children to start school, Halton Region is encouraging parents to ensure that their children’s vaccines are up-to-date. This includes Hepatitis B, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and Meningococcal ACYW-135 vaccines. These vaccines are typically given in Grade 7 at school-based vaccine clinics, however they may have been missed due to the pandemic. Hepatitis B, HPV and the Meningococcal immunizations are an important part of protecting individuals and our community against infectious disease.

Which students are currently eligible for the school-based vaccines?

Who is Eligible?	Vaccines offered
Grade 7 -12 students (born 2004-2009)	Meningococcal ACYW-135 HPV Hepatitis B
Individuals born 2002 & 2003	Meningococcal ACYW-135
Females born in 2002 or 2003	HPV

My child is missing grade 7 school-based vaccines. How can they catch up?

Community-based catch up clinics are currently running and will continue through the summer. Appointments are now available to be booked online for all eligible students.  Please note although walk-ins are welcome, appointments are preferred.

Eligible students in grades 9-12 who are missing doses of school-based vaccines can also request these vaccines from their primary care provider. They are free as long as your child is eligible for the publicly funded dose. 

Who updates my child’s online vaccine record?

You do! Your primary care provider does not update the electronic immunization record with Public Health. It is important to report all vaccines (except COVID-19 vaccines) to Public Health in order to keep student immunization records up-to-date. If your child’s vaccines are administered at our public health clinics they will be automatically added to their online vaccine record.

How can I view or update my child’s immunization record?

You can view or submit immunizations records online, using our OneHalton app or by calling 311.

My child is nervous about receiving vaccines. How can I support them?

The following strategies can make your child’s vaccination experience a more positive one:

• Talk to your child about the vaccines they will be receiving.
• Discuss the importance of vaccines to protect your child from certain diseases.
• Ask your child about any concerns they may have.
• Talk about your expectation for them to have the vaccine.
• Review and practice helpful ways to stay calm and distract (e.g. count to ten, take slow and deep breaths, look away from the needle).

Visit Immunize Canada for more information(external link) about preparing your child for their vaccinations(external PDF).

I need a bit more information!

Learn more about Halton Region’s Grade 7 School-based Immunizations.

Parents, we know you’ve had a lot on your plate lately, and it’s been tough to find a balance some days. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog and learn about how you and your family can stay healthy. At HaltonParents, we are here to support you on your parenting journey.

Connect with us. We would love to hear from you:

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• Email us at haltonparents@halton.ca

For parenting information or to speak with a Public Health Nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) simply call 311 or 905-825-6000.