WATCH: The growing number of BC parents who aren’t immunizing their children is causing concern for health officials. Nadia Stewart explains what’s causing the divide.
VANCOUVER – Fraser Health says more than 30 per cent of children in their region have not completed the recommended immunizations by two years old.
With the recent measles outbreak at Disneyland in California, Fraser Health wants to remind parents about the importance of following the recommended immunization schedule.
In a press release, Fraser Health says getting all the immunizations on time is the most effective way to prevent infections and outbreaks, such as the one at Disneyland.
Routine childhood immunizations in B.C. are free and recommended at two, four, six, 12 and 18 months. A follow-up Booster shot is also recommended at age four.
In Depth: Dr. Michelle Murti has more on the importance of immunizations
Fraser Health says children are not considered fully protected against vaccine-preventable diseases until they have completed the recommended immunizations.
For more information on vaccinations and where to get your child immunized, check out the Fraser Health website. If you need to make an appointment you can call your family doctor or the Public Health Unit.
Fraser Health has also provided these resources to help you track of your child’s immunization schedule:
- Sign up for free text reminders for your child’s next scheduled vaccine.
- Download the ImmunizeCA App for your iPhone, Android or Blackberry device.
- Download the Child Health Passport, or ask for one at your local Public Health office.
Fraser Health serves more than 1.6 million people from Burnaby to Boston Bar.
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