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P.E.I. School Vaccinations Dip Below National Target
5 Feb
Summary
- P.E.I. school vaccination rates have declined in recent years.
- Rates fell below the national target of 90% in 2023-24.
- Health officials plan catch-up programs and parent outreach.
Health officials on Prince Edward Island are observing a concerning decrease in student vaccination rates within the province's school system over the past couple of years. Available data from the 2023-24 school year indicates that vaccination coverage has fallen below the national benchmark of 90%.
Dr. Heather Morrison, the province's chief public health officer, stated that while rates remain relatively good at about 87%, this decline is a concern. Factors contributing to this trend may include vaccination records not being on file for families new to P.E.I., students being absent during immunization days, or parental vaccine hesitancy.
To address this, P.E.I. health authorities are planning to collaborate with education officials and Public Health Nursing. Their strategy includes introducing catch-up programs to ensure students receive necessary immunizations before graduating high school. Additionally, they aim to proactively connect with parents who express hesitation, providing information and answering their questions.
Morrison expressed optimism that targeted education campaigns will help boost P.E.I.'s vaccination numbers. Achieving herd immunity, crucial for preventing disease spread and protecting vulnerable individuals, relies on reaching the 90% target. The province is committed to continuous efforts to ensure the student population is as protected as possible.
