FOR CHILDREN

There is a new vaccination that reduces the risk of meningitis B - its' brand name is Bexsero. In the Ontario Public Health schedule, children are immunized against meningitis C at 12 months of age, and meningitis A, C, W and Y in grade 7 (Menactra). Currently meningitis B is the most common strain of bacteria to cause meningitis, and Bexsero is the first vaccine to show benefit against this strain of the infection. It is currently not covered by Public Health, and is approximately $130 per dose. For infants under 12 months, 2-3 doses are required plus a booster after 12 months. For older children and adolescents (up to age 17), 2 doses are required. We are happy to give you more information at your next appointment with your physician if you are interested in getting a prescription for this immunization or learning more about if it is right for your child.

FOR ADULTS

The shingles vaccine (brand name Zostavax) is now covered by public health for those between ages of 65 and 70. If you turn 71 in 2016 – born in 1945 – you can still get the free shingles vaccine. But you have to get it no later than December 31.

Here is a link with more information: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-free-shingles-vaccine