The top doctor of Ontario says that the province should modernize the vaccine register, asks for national schedule

The push for a national immunization schedule and register in Canada has gained momentum, with Dr. Kieran Moore, the top doctor in Ontario, calling for a centralized digital vaccine system in his province as a first step. In his recent annual report to the provincial legislature, Dr. Moore highlighted the need for a coordinated approach at all levels of government and the healthcare system to address gaps in vaccine-preventable diseases.

Currently, each province and territory in Canada has its own immunization schedule and data system, leading to confusion for parents and public health officials. Dr. Moore pointed out that Ontario lags behind other provinces that have modernized their vaccine records, creating challenges in tracking vaccine effectiveness and safety.

The lack of a national vaccine register has also contributed to a rise in parental skepticism towards routine immunizations, with vaccination rates for children declining since the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Moore emphasized the importance of preventing diseases through vaccination, citing a recent measles outbreak in Ontario as a stark reminder of the threats posed by preventable diseases.

Efforts are underway to connect existing immunization registries and develop a surveillance system for vaccine coverage at the national level. Five provinces and one territory have already submitted vaccine records to the federal government, with Ontario working towards integrating its separate data systems.

The benefits of a national vaccine schedule extend beyond public health, with centralized purchasing expected to lower costs through bulk purchases and preventable hospital admissions. Dr. Moore’s report underscores the need for a unified approach to immunization in Canada, emphasizing the importance of timely and accurate vaccination records for all Canadians.

In conclusion, the call for a national immunization schedule and register is gaining traction in Canada, with Ontario taking steps towards a centralized digital vaccine system. By harmonizing vaccine schedules and data systems across the country, Canada can better track vaccine effectiveness, address coverage gaps, and prevent outbreaks of preventable diseases.