Immunizations in Schools

In Ontario, kids need to have certain vaccines to go to school. This is part of the Immunization of School Pupils Act. Vaccines help protect everyone from illnesses that can spread. 

If your child can’t get vaccinated for personal, medical, or religious reasons, you’ll need to fill out exemption forms. Learn more about the different exemptions and how to apply for them.

What vaccines does my child need?

Your child needs to be vaccinated for these illnesses to attend school unless you’ve submitted an exemption form:

• Diphtheria

• Tetanus

• Polio

• Measles

• Mumps

• Rubella

• Whooping cough (pertussis)

• Meningococcal disease

• Chickenpox (varicella) – Only for kids born in 2010 or later

If you’re not sure if your child’s records are up to date, check with your healthcare provider. They may have already sent their vaccine information to us.

What happens if my child isn’t vaccinated or isn’t up to date?

If your child’s records are incomplete, we’ll send a notice. If the required vaccinations or exemption forms aren’t submitted by the deadline, your child may be suspended from school until the issue is resolved.

If there is an illness outbreak, students who are not protected against the infection will have to stay home from school until the outbreak is over or until they are immunized.

Quick tip: Check if your healthcare provider has already submitted your child’s records to save time.

How do I make sure my child is ready for school?

1. Check their vaccine records. Make sure your child has had all the vaccines they need.

2. Submit proof of vaccination. You can report this online or contact us if you need help at 1-800-922-0096.

3. Talk to your doctor. If your child is missing a vaccine, book an appointment to get it done.

Additional resources

• Learn more about immunization records and reporting

• Learn more about our grade 7 immunization program