Public Health Helpful Hints

Dear Parents and Guardians, This newsletter highlights some important public health information for students and their guardians from the Vaccine and Infectious Diseases teams at Hamilton Public Health Services.

Reporting your child’s vaccines for school

Did you know parents and guardians need to report their child’s vaccines to public health? Hamilton Public Health Services uses this information to respond to cases and outbreaks of vaccine preventable diseases. Up to date vaccine records helps Hamilton Public Health Services respond quickly and prevent further spread of disease and protect the health of children attending schools. Visit Hamilton.ca/Vaccines to report the following vaccinations:

Diphtheria

Polio

Measles

Rubella

Meningococcal

Tetanus

Mumps

Varicella

Pertussis

Respiratory season

It’s respiratory illness season in Hamilton! We are seeing an increase in respiratory infections in our community, such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Respiratory illnesses spread easily from one person to another and can make people very sick. Especially at risk, are those with weakened immune systems, seniors, infants, young children, and people who are pregnant.

As we gather with family and friends over the holiday season, we ask that you use a multilayered approach to protect yourself, your family, and our community from respiratory illnesses. This includes ensuring that the whole family is up to date on recommended respiratory vaccines.

Attached are two infographics that can help you protect yourself, family, and our community. Visit Hamilton.ca/ProtectYourself to learn more or call 905-540-5250 for assistance to book an immunization.

Hamilton Public Health Services

Respiratory Illness-Helpful Hints

Fall Respiratory Immunizations