The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has taken action against 860 students in the region due to incomplete immunization records, as reported on March 1, 2024. The Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) mandates public health units to maintain and review immunization records for all Ontario students, and to enforce school suspension for those with incomplete records.

During the Fall of 2023, the immunization records of all elementary students in Windsor and Essex County, totaling 45,371 records, were reviewed. Presently, 98% of these students are compliant with ISPA requirements, while 2% still have incomplete records. Consequently, 860 students have been excluded from school for up to 20 days or until they fulfill the ISPA.

Students facing suspension are required to provide the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit with the necessary records for missing immunizations or a valid exemption. Upon submission of updated immunization information, the student’s record will be updated, the suspension lifted, the school informed, and the student can promptly return to school.

The health unit is committed to assisting affected families, offering services such as immunization counseling and support, record updates, and administration of missing vaccines at their Windsor and Leamington offices from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Families can also submit proof of immunization online or seek support from their healthcare providers. For more information, families are encouraged to visit the health unit’s website.