Students in grades 9 to 12 who have not yet received their grade 7 vaccinations may attend upcoming catch up clinics in Belleville and Bancroft. Appointments are required. Visit the Immunization Clinics page for dates and locations.
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health will be visiting grade 7 classes twice a year to provide the following vaccinations:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Meningococcal
- Hepatitis B
Consent to Treatment
The Health Care Consent Act states that all persons, regardless of age, may consent to medical treatment, provided they understand the benefits and risks of the treatment as well as the benefits and risks of not having the treatment. There is no minimum age in Ontario for informed consent.
Parents play an important role in helping their children make decisions about their health and are encouraged to talk with their children about the benefits/risks of vaccinations.
Prevent Meningitis
Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act, students must show proof of vaccination against Meningococcal disease or provide a valid exemption. Students may be suspended from school if their records are not up-to-date.
About Meningococcal Disease
Meningococcal disease is rare, but when it strikes, the disease can progress rapidly and with serious consequences. Complications include organ failure, shock, amputations or death.
Vaccine Benefits
Meningococcal (Menctra, Menveo and Nimenrix) vaccine helps to protect against four types of Meningococcal bacteria identified as A, C, Y, W-135. This vaccine is 80-85% effective for teenagers; however, effectiveness decreases over time.
Prevent Liver Disease
Hepatitis B vaccine prevents liver disease caused by Hepatitis B infection.
About Hepatitis B
The virus spreads from an infected person’s blood and bodily fluids. Many people who have had the virus do not have any symptoms but can still spread it. This infection can last a long time and cause liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer or death.
Vaccine Benefits
Hepatitis B vaccine is over 95% effective at preventing Hepatitis B infection. Healthy students age 11-15 years need two doses given six months apart.
Prevent Cancer
Approximately 75% of Canadians will have an HPV infection at some time during their life. Most infections do not show symptoms and may clear on their own. However, some infections may lead to cancer of the head, neck or genitals.
About HPV
HPV is very common and there are over 100 different strains. A person can spread HPV by skin-to-skin contact even though they do not have any signs or symptoms. You do not need to have intercourse to spread HPV.
Vaccine Benefits
HPV vaccine is over 95% effective. It protects males and females against 9 types of Human Papillomavirus that can cause cancer and genital warts. Healthy students, age 9-14 years, need two doses given six months apart.
Vaccine Side Effects and Risks
These vaccines are safe, effective and well-tolerated. Reactions are usually mild and resolve in 2-3 days. Common side effects include pain and redness at the injection site, headache, and feeling tired or unwell for a short time after receiving the vaccine.
In rare cases, serious allergic reactions such as trouble breathing, rash, swelling in the throat and face may occur. The allergic reactions can be treated and are usually temporary. Students are observed following vaccinations and monitored for adverse reactions.
