Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Online Bulletin for Health Care Providers

Jan. 15, 2024

From:
Dr. Ethan Toumishey
Medical Officer of Health and CEO
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health

In this Issue:

1. Updated guidance for routine and catch-up immunization services
2. ISPA: Proof of immunization letters being sent to area students

News & Updates

Updated guidance for routine and catch-up immunization services

Several vaccines have age- or grade-based eligibility, and some individuals may have missed their opportunity to receive the recommended vaccines under the publicly funded program during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Health has issued updated Guidance for Routine & Catch-Up Immunization Services to address this. Please be aware that restarting a vaccine series is not required, regardless of the time delay.

Highlights of changes include:

• Program extensions to 2024 for the following vaccines for missed doses:
  • Hepatitis B
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Shingles
  • High risk program vaccines
• Updated hyperlinks
• Updated information regarding simultaneous administration of routine vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines for children

For additional information, please visit health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/immunization/schedule.aspx.

ISPA: Proof of immunization letters being sent to HPEC students 

The Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) requires students to submit proof of immunization, or valid exemption, to public health. Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) will be sending Proof of Immunization Required letters to students with incomplete records next week. Parents/guardians have until Feb. 19, 2024 to submit their updated records to HPEPH to avoid suspension.

The letter instructs parents/guardians to contact their health care provider for immunization records, or possible appointment for immunization. Additionally, information on how to book an appointment with public health is provided at hpePublicHealth.ca/clinic/immunization-clinic/ or by calling 613-966-5500, ext. 221. As a result, you may have an increase in phone calls for appointments or record requests at your offices.

Students with incomplete immunization records or without a valid exemption will be suspended on April 9, 2024.

Additional information about maintenance and review of student records under ISPA is available at hpePublicHealth.ca/immunizations-in-schools/.

Thank you for your commitment to ensuring HPEC students are up to date with their immunizations.

Back to Summary

Contact Information: 

To report communicable diseases:613-966-5500 x349

To report AEFI or DOPHS: Online / Fax: 613-966-1813 or CDCFAX1@hpeph.ca

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people.

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