Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit Urges Parents to Update Children's Vaccines

As families prepare for an active summer, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is urging parents to ensure their children's immunizations are up to date. This reminder comes in light of recent correspondence sent to parents of students in Grades 2 and 3, born in 2016 and 2017, who are missing required vaccinations. The letters were dispatched from schools throughout the Simcoe Muskoka region, highlighting the importance of maintaining routine immunizations to safeguard children's health during summer activities, including camps and sports.

Dr. Colin Lee, the Associate Medical Officer of Health at SMDHU, emphasized the significance of catching up on missed vaccinations, stating, "Summer is a great time to book a checkup with your child's health care provider and catch up on any missed vaccines". He further noted that with the onset of summer camps and group activities, the risk of spreading preventable diseases increases due to close contact among children.

Vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing serious illnesses such as whooping cough, meningococcal meningitis, and measles. Parents who lack a health care provider can schedule immunization appointments at SMDHU offices located in Barrie, Collingwood, Cookstown, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Midland, and Orillia.

To verify their child's immunization status, parents can access their records online at smdhu.org. It's important to note that vaccinations administered by healthcare providers outside of the health unit may not appear in the official records, as these are not typically reported. Parents are encouraged to submit any missing information to ensure their child's immunization record is accurate.

The health unit also recommends the use of CANImmunize, a free mobile application designed to help families manage their immunization records digitally. The app allows users to organize their information and share it directly with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.

For further details on routine immunizations or to arrange appointments at health unit clinics, families can visit smdhu.org or contact the immunization team at 705-721-7520 ext. 8827. With the summer season fast approaching, ensuring that children are protected against preventable diseases is more critical than ever, as it allows families to fully enjoy their summer activities without the looming threat of illness.