Thousands of students risk suspension over outdated immunization records

Thousands of students in Waterloo region could be suspended next month if they don’t update their immunization records.

In a notice issued Thursday, Region of Waterloo Public Health said suspension orders have been sent to 3,258 high school students whose records are incomplete or outdated.

Public Health said the number of students at risk this year is consistent with past trends in the region.

“Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect your child from serious illness,” Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, the region’s Medical Officer of Health, said in a statement. “It is important to keep your child’s vaccines up to date and to report them to Public Health promptly to avoid school suspension.”

The suspensions will take effect on April 9. Students have until 4:30 p.m. on April 6 to update their vaccination records or file an exemption.

To avoid being suspended, students can report the vaccines they have received through the region’s website. Those who require vaccinations must book an appointment with their health care provider or at a walk-in clinic.

Students who received a suspension order but don’t have OHIP can book an appointment at a Public Health clinic in Cambridge or Kitchener.

The Immunization of School Pupils Act requires all elementary and high school students to have proof of their vaccinations or a valid exemption.