FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, April 27, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. | Windsor-Essex County
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) recognizes National Immunization Awareness Week (NIAW) as an opportunity to celebrate. Local data shows that vaccination rates among Windsor-Essex County (WEC) students is strong. Early in 2026, the WECHU reviewed student records for compliance with Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA).
Through strong partnerships with school boards and health care providers, and ongoing outreach efforts by the WECHU, more than 99% of students now have up to date records for the vaccines that are required for ISPA and the vaccines offered in schools to Grade 7 students. High vaccine rates benefit the whole community. Immunizations not only protect the individuals but they also help protect others such as people who are unable to be vaccinated.
The Time is Now
“Vaccines remain one of our best tools in the prevention of disease. I encourage everyone to speak to their health care provider about what vaccines they and their family members may be missing.” Reminds Dr. Mehdi Aloosh, the Medical Officer of Health at the WECHU.
This year’s theme for NIAW, the time is now, serves as a reminder for everyone to speak to their health care provider about their immunization status. Health care providers can answer questions about publicly funded vaccines that you and your family may be eligible for, as well as make suggestions for other vaccines based on a person’s health needs for further protection.
For more information on immunization, visit www.wechu.org/immunization