Among the new clothes, school supplies and other items on the back-to-school to-do list, the Fraser Health Authority is asking parents to add immunizations to the list.
Immunizations are one of the most effective medical tools available to protect children against serious vaccine-preventable diseases, according to a Fraser Health press release. But children aren't considered fully protected until they have completed the recommended immunizations.
Children between four and six years old should have up-to-date booster shots to protect against polio, tetanus, diphtheria, chicken pox and whooping cough.
(On Wednesday, Alberta Health Services declared a whooping cough outbreak in northern Alberta after 182 cases were confirmed so far this year.)
Subsequent vaccinations are also done at school in Grades 6 and 9.
Fraser Health noted that ensuring your child is immunized protects not only their health but those in the community as well, particularly infants who haven't yet been immunized and are most at risk.
To make an immunization appointment call your family doctor or the public health unit (205 Newport Dr., Port Moody).
STAPLES HELPING FAMILIES IN NEED WITH SCHOOL SUPPLIES
If you're shopping for school supplies at Staples, consider donating to families in need at the checkout.
The store's Staples Makes More Happen fundraising efforts are collecting money to purchase supplies for struggling families. Staples absorbs the packing and shipping costs, with 100% of donated money going to purchase school supplies for several local families.
"Most principals know exactly who is in need in their school and the supplies given to the school are chosen to fit the children's needs," said Jana Nimmo, manager of the Coquitlam Staples store, who noted there are hundreds of kids who go without even the most basic supplies. "Families have expressed a huge relief in the past, to the principals, as this takes a lot of pressure off their finances at this expensive time of year."
Until three years ago, Staples distributed school supplies donations through the Share food bank but now deals directly with schools in School District 43.
The store's goal is to raise enough money to purchase supplies for 500 children. A barbecue on Aug. 15 raised $500 and further donations are accepted at the store.
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