Immunizations and Vaccines
Report your child's immunizations
Every time a child is immunized by a health care provider, parents and/or guardians must report it to Durham Region Health Department. Please attach a photo of the immunization record.
Please do not report immunizations received at school or clinics that were provided by Durham Region Health Department. These will be automatically entered by Health Department staff.
What is immunization?
Immunization is the process where a person becomes protected or resistant to a disease, by receiving a vaccine. Vaccines stimulate the body’s own immune system to prevent a person from getting an infection or disease altogether, or by making the illness less severe.
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illnesses. Vaccine-preventable diseases are rare in North America because of immunization.
| Where can I get more information? |
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Scarborough Health Network VaxFacts Clinic Immunization InfoLine | SickKids Understanding vaccines |
| When to immunize |
| It is important to follow the Ontario Publicly Funded Immunization Schedule. The age of when vaccines are given, and the number of doses needed has been established using evidence from scientific research. To provide optimal protection, recommended immunization schedules should be followed as closely as possible. There are no known benefits to delaying vaccines or following different immunization schedules. Delaying immunizations leaves your child at risk of getting diseases that can be prevented by immunizations. |
| Immunization laws |
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In Ontario there are two laws: the Child Care Early Years Act and the Immunization of School Pupils Act. Under these laws, Durham Region Health Department must collect and keep up-to-date immunization records for every child registered in licensed child care and school, until the age of 18 years. |
Even healthy adults need vaccines
Your vaccination needs can change with your:
- age
- travel
- lifestyle
- health status
- employment
Consult your health care provider to discuss your vaccination needs.
Are you 18 or older and without OHIP coverage, a health care provider, or experiencing difficulty getting vaccines through your health care provider?
Call Durham Health Connection Line to speak with a public health nurse about your immunization options.
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Reasons to vaccinate |
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Vaccines protect you from illness, disability and even death. Vaccines also protect people around you. People who work in some jobs such as, teachers, child care workers or health care providers are at risk of getting preventable diseases. Vaccines may be needed to work in these jobs or to attend post-secondary education programs. As you age, you may be more likely to get diseases like shingles or pneumonia. You can prevent some of these diseases through vaccination. Some vaccines can wear off over time. Adults may need booster shots for some vaccines to maintain immunity. |
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Vaccines for adults |
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Adults in Ontario can get the following routine vaccines for free:
Ontario's Routine Immunization Schedule You may need other vaccines based on your health status and lifestyle. Talk to your health care provider to review your vaccine options. Learn more about vaccine options for specific populations. |
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Vaccines in pregnancy and breastfeeding |
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You can get routine vaccines while breastfeeding. It is safe and benefits both you and your baby. If thinking about getting pregnant, check with your health care provider to ensure your immunizations are up to date. You may need a blood test to be sure. Getting more vaccines may help you and your baby. Talk to your doctor about your vaccine needs. They will tell you the best time to get your shots.
Protect your baby by making sure your family, friends and close contacts are up to date with their vaccines. Learn more about vaccines in pregnancy and breastfeeding. |
For more information see Public Health Agency of Canada - Not just for kids. An adult guide to vaccination
Travelling soon? Stay healthy and safe while travelling.
- You may need vaccines for your destination.
- Check with your health care provider to see which vaccines you need and how many doses.
- Learn what vaccines you need for your destination.
- Carry a copy of your immunization record while travelling. Some countries need proof of vaccination.
Find travel advice and clinic information
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