Lambton Public Health (LPH) is still waiting to hear back from nearly 4,000 students.
The health unit on Friday, February 2 started mailing out suspension notices to both elementary and secondary students who have not provided updated immunization records, since first notices were sent out in January.
LPH said there are a total of 3,947 students who face suspension if records are not brought up-to-date. Parents can also file for an exemption.
Suspension orders for elementary students will take effect on Tuesday, March 5 and on Tuesday, March 26 for secondary students.
Under the Ontario Immunization of School Pupils Act, required records include immunizations for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, mumps, rubella, measles, meningitis, whooping cough and chicken pox.
“Immunizations reported to public health in accordance with ISPA helps ensure adequate community immunity to prevent the transmission of, and protects the health of children against, vaccine preventable diseases,” said Lambton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Karalyn Dueck. “Staying up-to-date on immunization reporting enables swift public health management if there were ever an outbreak in our schools and helps protect our communities.”
Options to report records, view records, or learn how to complete the exemption process, can be found on LPH's website.
Those requiring an immunization are asked to contact their healthcare provider or book an appointment at an LPH clinic.
