The pneumococcal vaccination, the first of three new free child vaccines being introduced by the McGuinty government, is now available, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced today.
"Our government believes we have a duty to give every child the chance at a good start in life, and the best possible health," says Smitherman. "Today marks the beginning of our plan to protect and save the lives of Ontario's children, by vaccinating them against preventable diseases."
On July 1, free immunizations became available across the province for all high-risk children two years to four years of age for pneumococcal disease. This disease can cause pneumonia, meningitis and infection of the blood. High-risk children include those with a weakened immune system, heart and lung disease or diabetes. It is estimated over 10,000 children in Ontario will now be eligible to receive the free vaccine.
The government is investing $156 million, over three years, to add the three new vaccinations for pneumococcal disease, chicken pox and meningitis. This plan will see 3.3 million Ontario children vaccinated without charge. The three new free immunization programs will save Ontario parents more than $600 per child.
"I'm delighted we're responding quickly to parents who have been anxious to know when we would be starting our new free vaccination programs," said Dr. Sheela Basrur, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health. "Vaccinations must and will be available to all who need them."