Immunization

Important New Immunization Information

In April 2012, changes were made to both childhood and adult schedules of our provincial publicly funded immunization program. 

Childhood Immunization Program

The changes include:

  • An increase to two doses of Varicella (Chickenpox)vaccine at 12 months and four to six years of age
  • Use of a combined MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)and Varicella (Chickenpox)vaccine-MMRV
  • Reduction to three doses of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevnar) for healthy children, to be given at two months, four months and 12 months of age

Childhood Immunization Schedule

Adult Immunization Program:

The change is:

  • Everyone born in 1970 or later is now eligible for two doses of MMR vaccine.

For more information please talk to your Health Professional or contact Public Health Services at (902) 481-5800 for details.

Adult Immunization Schedule

Get your shots today!

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. They protect you from infections and illness, so get yours now!  And remember, they don't protect you against all germs so take other precautions too, like washing your hands well and often, and coughing into your elbow.

Video - W.H.O. Immunization Saves Lives

It's flu season

With chilly fall nights and earlier sunsets comes something else you'll want to prepare for: flu season. The flu shot is available as of October 19, 2011, free of charge, for all Nova Scotians over six months of age. Find everything you need to know, including where to get your flu shots, on our flu page.

Vaccinations in full swing in grade 7 classes

Grade 7 students across the district are preparing for the four vaccinations they will receive this year. Public Health staff offer these vaccines in schools thanks to our partnership with local school boards and the support of principals and staff.

General vaccination information

Doctors and other health care professionals provide 80 percent of immunization to infants, children up to age five and adults. Public Health provides immunization to almost 100 percent of school-aged children and youth in the Capital Health district.

When to get vaccinated

For more information about vaccines and immunization please visit the following websites:

Protecting Nova Scotians through immunization is a responsibility shared between the Department of Health and Wellness, Public Health Services, primary health care practitioners and other community providers.