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Healthy students are better learners
At the Durham Region Health Department, we have a team of health professionals which include school public health nurses, immunization nurses, oral health staff and health protection staff that are dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and well-being of children and youth in all schools in Durham Region. Our team strives to achieve optimal health of the entire school community through partnership and collaboration with school boards and schools.
The 1 ,2, 3 Get Set for Kindergarten resource is available in English and French and can help you get your child ready to learn and off to a healthy start at school. It includes information about healthy habits that will support learning along the way.
Up to one in four children have problems seeing which can affect their learning. Some of these problems can be treated only if identified while children are young.
Every year in Ontario:
To find an optometrist, visit the Ontario Association of Optometrists website or call 1-800-540-3837.
Eye exams remain an important component of child visual health. Comprehensive eye exams can identify children who may have no apparent symptoms, eye abnormalities or blurred vision. If left untreated, these problems may lead to permanent vision loss or poor academic performance in school. It is recommended that all children see an optometrist for an eye exam.
A yearly eye exam is free for children and youth 19-years old or younger with a valid Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card.
School-based public health clinics
Durham Region Health Department provides free school-based immunization clinics for eligible students in grades 7 and 8. These clinics take place at your child’s school and offer important vaccines to help protect against preventable diseases.
At these clinics, students can receive the following vaccines:
More information about the grade 7 vaccines.
It is safe for your child to get more than one vaccine at the same time. Grade 8 students who missed vaccinations in grade 7 can receive catch-up doses at school clinics.
For more details, visit our Child Immunization and School clinics page.
If you would like your child to receive a free dental screening or if you have any questions regarding your child’s oral health, please contact the Health Department, Oral Health Clinic at 1-866-853-1326 extension 4567.
Contact us
Health Department - Durham Health Connection Line
The Regional Municipality of Durham
605 Rossland Road East
Whitby, Ontario L1N 6A3
Telephone (within regional limits): 311
Fax: 905-666-6214
Email the Health Department
Map this location
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