High School Immunization
To report, obtain, or update an immunization record or view vaccines you are due for, use the Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) system.
What is the High School Immunization Program?
Every year, secondary students are offered the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccination through the school immunization program. Immunization against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis is required by law for all children attending school in Ontario, unless a valid exemption is filed with the Health Unit.
The Tdap immunization (1 dose, every 10 years) will be offered at all secondary schools beginning February 2024 for all eligible students.
Check to see when we will be at your school:
Due to the pandemic disruption, many Algoma youth may be behind for school-related immunizations. Algoma Public Health is working hard to catch students up by offering catch up clinics for all eligible secondary school students who may have missed their Tdap vaccine. If your child is overdue for this immunization, they will be able to receive this vaccine at school immunization clinics.
These vaccinations are publicly-funded under the Ontario’s Routine Immunization Schedule.
About the diseases
What is tetanus?
Tetanus or lockjaw is a disease caused by a toxin produced by bacteria. Tetanus bacteria are found in many places in the environment, including dust, soil, and manure. Tetanus bacteria can enter the body through a sore or wound. When the bacteria enter the body, a powerful toxin is produced that attacks the nervous system.
Tetanus is not spread from person to person. Immunization against tetanus is effective however, immunity weakens over time. A booster is recommended every 10 years.
What is diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a serious and highly contagious bacterial disease of the nose, throat and skin. It causes sore throat, fever and weakness and can lead to breathing problems, heart failure and nerve damage. Diphtheria is passed to others through coughing or sneezing.
What is pertussis?
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a serious bacterial disease, particularly dangerous in infants and children. Symptoms include violent coughing, which may result in vomiting or being unable to breathe temporarily. Pertussis is highly contagious and can be passed from an infected person to others through coughing or sneezing.
For more information see our Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) fact sheet.
In School Vaccination Clinic Dates
School-based Immunization Schedule 2022/2023 (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the needles given?
What does it feel like when you get a vaccine?
What can a student expect?
What if a student is absent on the day of the clinic?
How can I check or update my child's vaccination record?
Keeping your child's vaccinations up-to-date is important. At this time, health care providers are not required to report immunizations to public health, and this responsibility is with parents and caregivers.
There are three ways you can update your child’s immunization record:
- Online - Immunization Connect Ontario is a web-based service provided by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care that allows you to securely submit immunization information. To use this online service, visit www.algomapublichealth.com/ICON
- Return the attached consent form with the details of the vaccines received.
- Telephone - you can call our Immunization Records at 705-942-4646 ext. 3535, or your local APH office.
My child is learning remotely. How can they get their immunizations?
You may connect your child’s primary care provided or local Public Health Unit to make an appointment.
Can my child get the school vaccinations if they were just vaccinated for COVID-19?
Yes. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) updated its recommendations on the co-administration of COVID-19 vaccines with other vaccines. For individuals 5 years of age and older, COVID-19 vaccines may be given on the same day, or at any time before or after, non-COVID vaccines.
Exemptions
Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA)
- The Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) requires that all students be fully immunized, unless a valid medical or non-medical/religious exemption is filed with the Public Health Unit
- In Ontario, ISPA states that all children attending school must be adequately immunized against:
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Polio
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Meningococcal Disease
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
- Varicella (chickenpox) - mandatory for students born on or after January 1, 2010
Learn more about the Immunization of Schools Pupil Act (ISPA).
