To attend school in Ontario, all students must provide proof of routine childhood immunization, or a valid exemption, as per the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA). These immunization records are collected to help protect students and the public in case there is a vaccine-preventable disease outbreak in our community. 

It is the responsibility of the parent or caregiver to report and update their child’s immunization records to Grand Erie Public Health. Physicians are not required to report immunizations, and many do not. 

Students who fail to provide proof of immunization or a valid exemption, may be suspended from school for up to 20 days. 

 

The goal is to increase immunization coverage rates and keep our school communities safe. Parents and guardians are urged to ensure their children’s immunization records are up to date to avoid suspension.  

Vaping is putting Canadian youth at serious risk of nicotine addiction, lung damage, and poor mental health. With 750,000 young people vaping daily, it's more important than ever to start the conversation and drive change.

Parents, educators, and anyone who wants to help young people quit—we’ve got the tools you need. It all starts with compassionate, open conversations that encourage healthier choices. 

Begin today by using the Brief Conversations Toolkit to learn how to approach these discussions with care and understanding.  

When travelling abroad, it’s important to note that some countries may have greater health risks than Canada. With March Break approaching, taking precautions is the best way to keep you and your family safe and healthy all around the world. 

Before going, ensure your family’s immunizations for measles, rabies, yellow fever, and hepatitis are all up to date. Immunization standards aren’t the same in every country, so the risk of infection can be much higher. Avoid contact with foreign animals, as they may be infected with rabies.

The number one cause of illness among travellers is eating and drinking contaminated food and beverages. Avoid uncooked, raw, and street vendor foods, along with served peeled fruits and vegetables. Always ensure the water you’re drinking is boiled, disinfected, or coming from a commercially sealed bottle. Ice should also only be consumed from purified or disinfected water sources. 

On February 26, we unite for Pink Shirt Day—a global movement that raises awareness about bullying and promotes kindness, empathy, and respect in our communities. Wear a pink shirt to show your support and take a stand against all forms of bullying, both in-person and online.  



Let's work together to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone, where kindness and compassion are the norms. Together, we can make a difference!