Algoma Public Health's warning school suspensions are "looming" for children without up-to-date immunizations and records.
Following on notices sent in January, the health unit's reminding families across its region that Ontario law requires youth under age 18 to have received certain vaccines or have a valid exemption on file or be suspended up to 20 days, with those suspensions to start later this spring, so parents are reminded to update records or book vaccine appointments soon.
Acting Medical Officer of Health Dr. John Tuinema emphasizes immunization "is essential to keeping our schools safe" by preventing infectious diseases, as "high vaccination rates are vital for achieving community protection and preventing the spread of serious illnesses like measles and whooping cough among school-aged children".