Toronto students face suspension over vaccination records.

Toronto Public Health has issued more than 16,000 suspension notices for students in grades 2–5 because of incomplete immunization records, and some parents say they have already submitted proof that their children are up to date.

Toronto Public Health has issued more than 16,000 suspension notices for students in grades 2 to 5 because their immunization records are incomplete or lack a valid exemption. Officials say many children have received required vaccinations but that parents are responsible for reporting records to the public health registry, and some files remain missing. The notices follow a period of declining vaccination coverage and a measles outbreak that began in October 2024. Public health has said the goal is to get students up to date and keep them in class while addressing record issues. Key facts: - More than 16,000 suspension orders had been sent as of late January for students in grades 2–5, with more notices issued through February. - Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act, students must be vaccinated against certain diseases or have a valid exemption; suspensions can last up to 20 school days, though most last less than five. - Public health officials say many records are missing because parents must report immunizations to the agency, and some families report submitting documentation multiple times without resolution. - Toronto Public Health is working with schools and families to resolve records before possible exclusion periods, and exclusions may begin in March if records remain incomplete. Summary: The notices have highlighted gaps between families' immunization records and the public health registry and have left some parents frustrated after repeated submissions and long wait times for clarification. Toronto Public Health says it is working with schools and families to resolve records, and exclusion periods of up to 20 school days may begin in March if records remain incomplete.