Meningitis C Clinics

Region of Waterloo Public Health holds clinics to give meningococcal vaccine free of charge to people who are eligible. People who are not eligible can purchase the vaccine and ask their doctor or health-care provider to inject it, or they may wait until they become eligible.

Eligibility

• Children age one can receive Meningitis C vaccine from their doctor or health-care provider along with other important childhood vaccines.
• Grade 7 students, or anyone age 12, is encouraged to take the vaccine. Parental consent is required.
• Others who are eligible may obtain free vaccine from their doctor or health-care provider. If you do not have a doctor or health-care provider, contact Region of Waterloo Public Health at 519-883-2007

Consent

Consents will go home with the grade 7 students about one week before the date of the clinics at their school.

Discuss the information with your parents and...

• Complete the Meningitis C immunization consent form that is sent home with you or print a copy here.
• Return the completed form to your teacher at school within a couple of days.
• Wear a short-sleeved loose-fitting shirt the day of the clinic.

A record of your Meningitis C immunization will be given to you to keep for your records.

Who can consent to immunization with Meningitis C vaccine?

Any person is able to consent to immunization if he or she understands the information (such as risk and benefits) that is important to making the decision, and appreciates the consequences of having or not having the immunization.

By accepting the Meningitis C immunization, the person is consenting to the collection and use of personal health information by Region of Waterloo Public Health.

This information is also shared with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care for the purpose of maintaining an immunization record for this person.

There is no minimum age for giving consent in Ontario (this information is from the Ontario Health Care Consent Act).

Parents' Role

All students should discuss this immunization with their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians can provide information about any previous meningitis immunization, or any previous reactions to immunization. They are also encouraged to discuss their views on health and immunization.

For information about Meningitis C, how it spreads and treatment, please check the Region of Waterloo's Meningitis C page.