Province reminds parents to get their kids immunized

It takes just a quick pinch, maybe a little crying, and then a lollipop; the province is reminding parents to make sure their kids’ immunizations are up-to-date.

Free shots are available for babies, toddler, and school-aged kids.
 
Free vaccinations include:

• Diphtheria
• Tetanus
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Polio
• Haemophilus influenza type b
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• Varicella (chicken pox)
• Meningococcal disease
• Rotavirus

Free vaccinations for school-aged kids include:

• Grade 6 students – hepatitis B, bacterial meningitis, varicella (chickenpox)
• Grade 6 female students – human papillomavirus vaccine
• Grade 8 students – tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) booster

 
In a news release, the province’s Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Saqib Shahab, said the vaccine program plays an important role in keeping kids healthy.

“It is important that parents and families understand the benefits of vaccinating their children against preventable diseases.”

Flu shots are also free for all residents over six months of age. Flu clinics begin in mid-October.