February 4 2015
Over the past few days, there have been questions regarding immunization rates at Toronto schools.
These questions have raised some concerns about impacts to our public health. I share these concerns and wanted to take a moment to clarify the process of the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) on these issues.
The TDSB takes its lead from Toronto Public Health (TPH) on issues of vaccinations. Toronto Public Health oversees and monitors vaccination requirements of students, and requests for exemptions must be submitted to them for approval. The TDSB can and does assist in the exchange of vaccination information between parents and Toronto Public Health, but does not hold on to records or set requirements for vaccination.
More information from Toronto Public Health is available here.
In the case of the four lab-confirmed cases of measles in Toronto earlier this week, none are known to be related to the TDSB. The TDSB does, and will continue to, work closely with Toronto Public Health, who are the experts on such important health matters.
So far, Toronto Public Health, believes that the risk to the general public is low and has not advised the Board of any additional precautions that need to be taken. If any additional precautions are required, that will be communicated to parents swiftly.
The health and safety of our students, schools, and communities is critically important to all of us. Vaccinations are an established and proven method for protecting our collective health.
I will continue to track this situation closely. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at ausma.malik@tdsb.on.ca, or 416.397.3100.
Thank you.