Children Entering School

Vaccines protect school-aged children from the risks of complications from diseases that can be prevented by immunization.

According to the Public Health Act, children entering school for the first time in New Brunswick must demonstrate proof of immunization against vaccine preventable diseases.

Each year, Public Health nurses assess the immunization record of children entering schools for the first time to:

  • Ensure that schools have proof of immunization for each student;
  • Give parents/legal guardians an opportunity to bring their child’s immunizations up to date.

The Act allows parents or legal guardians to refuse immunization for medical reasons or objections. The exemption form is available at the schools or on the government website.

Based on the Routine Immunization Schedule (New Brunswick), the record should show that the child has been immunized against:

  • Diphtheria;
  • Tetanus;
  • Poliomyelitis;
  • Pertussis;
  • Measles;
  • Rubella;
  • Mumps;
  • Varicella;
  • Meningococcal disease.

 

For more information

New Brunswick Routine Immunization Schedule

Vaccine Fact Sheets

Immunization FAQs

Education Act

Public Health Act

Immunization Exemption Form for School Entry

Preparing for Kindergarten: Immunization Video