Should we bring the vaccination card of the country of
origin when immigrating?
Yes, it is highly recommended to carry a vaccination card or
immunization record from your country of origin when immigrating to Canada as a
newcomer. Here's why and how it is beneficial:
Why Carry a Vaccination Card?
- Medical
History:
- It
serves as a critical record of your immunizations, ensuring healthcare
providers in Canada are aware of your vaccination status.
- This
helps avoid unnecessary repeat vaccinations and ensures continuity of
care.
- School
Admission for Children:
- Proof
of immunizations is often required for children enrolling in Canadian
schools to ensure compliance with provincial vaccination requirements.
- Employment:
- Certain
jobs, especially in healthcare and childcare, require proof of specific
vaccinations.
- Healthcare
System Integration:
- Canadian
healthcare providers may use your vaccination history to recommend
additional vaccines as per Canadian guidelines, such as flu or
pneumococcal vaccines.
- Immigration
Health Requirements:
- Some
vaccines may be required for permanent residency applications or during
immigration medical exams.
What Should Your Vaccination Card Include?
- Your
name and date of birth.
- A list
of vaccines you received (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis
B, etc.).
- Dates
when vaccines were administered.
- The
name of the healthcare provider or clinic where the vaccines were given.
What to Do if You Don’t Have a Vaccination Card?
- Contact
your healthcare provider or local health authority in your country of
origin to request a copy of your immunization records.
- If
unavailable, a healthcare provider in Canada may recommend blood tests to
determine immunity or suggest re-vaccination.
Storing and Translating Your Records
- If the
vaccination card is not in English or French, consider getting it
translated by a certified translator.
- Keep
both the original and the translated copies for reference.
