National Immunization Awareness Month

August 9, 2024

National Immunization Awareness Month is held every August in Canada and highlights the importance of immunizations throughout life. This year’s theme is “Protect your future. Get immunized!”

The Department of Health would like to take this opportunity to remind Nunavummiut that vaccines are safe and effective against many diseases. Immunization is one of the best ways to protect individuals of any age.

Parents and guardians should keep children’s vaccinations up to date from birth through young adulthood. Consult your physician, nurse, pharmacist, or local public health office about necessary immunizations.

Vaccines protect children, adults, families, and communities against serious diseases specifically those individuals at highest risk of illness. Several diseases like whooping cough, measles, and human papillomavirus can be prevented if you are vaccinated during childhood. Adults also need to think about seasonal vaccines such as the flu shot. Tetanus and diphtheria vaccines should be administered in adulthood after every 10 years to remain protected. A pneumonia-preventing vaccine given in childhood should be obtained once again after the age of 50.

The recommended vaccine schedule for babies and children is detailed in the Childhood Vaccine Booklet, available at your local health centre. This booklet helps you track your child’s vaccines and learn about immunizations. Adults can use a wallet-sized immunization card, also available at health centres. All vaccines are recorded in Nunavut’s Meditech system, and you can request a copy of your vaccine record at any time.

Vaccinations can be booked by appointment throughout the territory. Call your local health centre or public health unit to schedule an appointment. For more information on vaccines or clinics, visit the Government of Nunavut website or talk to your health care provider.

NT5