As the new school year approaches, British Columbia’s top doctor is reminding parents to ensure their children are up to date on their vaccinations.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer, emphasized the importance of vaccinations in a press conference on Tuesday. She urged parents to make sure their children’s immunizations are up to date before they return to school in the fall.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and our communities from preventable diseases,” Dr. Henry said.
She also addressed concerns about the recent measles outbreak in the Lower Mainland, stating that the majority of cases were in unvaccinated individuals.
“It’s a reminder that we need to continue to be vigilant about getting our children vaccinated,” she said.
According to the BC Centre for Disease Control, children are required to have certain vaccinations before entering school, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), and chickenpox.
Dr. Henry also addressed concerns about the safety of vaccines, stating that they undergo rigorous testing and are continuously monitored for any potential side effects.
“Vaccines are safe and effective, and they have been proven to save lives,” she said.
She also reminded parents that vaccines not only protect their own children but also those who are unable to receive vaccinations due to medical reasons.
“It’s not just about protecting our own children, it’s about protecting the entire community,” she said.
Dr. Henry encouraged parents to speak with their healthcare providers if they have any questions or concerns about vaccinations.
“We want to make sure that all children have the best protection possible before they return to school,” she said.
In addition to vaccinations, Dr. Henry also stressed the importance of other measures to prevent the spread of diseases, such as hand washing and staying home when sick.
As the new school year approaches, it is crucial for parents to prioritize their children’s health and ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations. With the help of vaccines, we can protect our children and our communities from preventable diseases.
