Make up-to-date vaccines part of back-to-school prep: top doctor

As the new school year approaches, thoughts are turning to back-to-school supplies — but keeping children's vaccinations up to date is something else parents and guardians should have on their to-do list, British Columbia's top doctor says. 

"Getting your children vaccinated is the best way to protect them from vaccine-preventable illnesses that can cause serious illness, long-term disability and even death," Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said in a news release Monday. 

As students return to the classroom or child-care facilities, their chances of becoming exposed to illness increase, Henry said. 

"August is the perfect time to take your children for any outstanding vaccines," she said in the release. 

Children aged six and under are eligible for free vaccines to protect them from various diseases, such as chickenpox, measles, polio, influenza and COVID-19, Henry said.

Children in Grade 6 and up can access free vaccines at school clinics for human papillomavirus and meningitis, she added. 

For infants and young children, parents can find where they can book an appointment through HealthLinkBC, or get a vaccination at a local health unit or doctor's or nurse practitioner's office. Vaccinations for children older than five can also be booked at some pharmacies.  

"Just like packing healthy lunches for your kids and encouraging them to get through exercise and sleep, getting them vaccinated is one of the most important things you can do to help them have a happy and healthy school year," Henry  said. 

People can look at their children's immunization schedule through HealthLinkBC or view immunizations records through the province's online Health Gateway.