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Canadian Public Health Association

Vaccination and Immunization Registries

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PUBLIC HEALTH MATTERS

Vaccinations are one of the most effective public health interventions, preventing millions of deaths and illnesses globally. However, in order for vaccination programs to be effective, Canada needs comprehensive and unified immunization registry systems. The federal government plays a crucial role in ensuring that vaccination data is collected, shared, and used to protect public health across the country.

A Higher Standard

Vaccination is one of the most effective public health interventions, preventing serious illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths. Immunization programs have significantly reduced the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, influenza, and pertussis. However, vaccine uptake remains uneven across Canada, with disparities in access and misinformation affecting immunization rates (Government of Canada, 2024).

Despite Canada’s high overall immunization coverage, gaps exist in certain populations, particularly among structurally disadvantaged communities, rural populations, and newcomers to Canada. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of federal leadership in vaccine distribution and public education to ensure high immunization coverage across all demographics (Government of Canada, 2024).

It’s time for Canada to do better.

Why It Matters

Immunization protects individuals and communities from preventable diseases and reduces healthcare costs. Every dollar invested in childhood immunization programs saves up to $16 in healthcare costs and lost productivity (World Health Organization, 2024). Meanwhile, every dollar invested in adult vaccines returns more than three times (341%) its value in healthcare costs averted and productivity gains, on average (Adult Vaccine Alliance, 2024).

However, vaccine hesitancy remains a major public health challenge. Misinformation and disinformation about vaccines have contributed to declining coverage rates in some regions, increasing the risk of outbreaks of diseases such as measles and pertussis.

An effective national immunization registry can save lives by ensuring that all Canadians are vaccinated according to the national schedule. Such a system would also allow for better coordination of public health efforts during outbreaks, provide accurate data for health professionals, and help address vaccination disparities. Improved vaccination tracking can reduce the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure that public health responses are swift and data-driven.

Policy Solutions for the Next Federal Government

  1. Develop a National Immunization Registry: Establish a unified immunization registry system that collects and shares vaccination data across provinces and territories to improve vaccine coverage and public health monitoring.
  2. Support Vaccine Equity: Increase federal funding for vaccination programs in underserved communities to ensure equitable access to vaccines for all Canadians.
  3. Expand Public Health Education on Vaccines: Invest in national campaigns that promote vaccination and address vaccine hesitancy, especially in light of misinformation.
  4. Enhance Preparedness for Future Health Crises: Use a national immunization registry to improve Canada’s ability to track vaccine distribution and administration during public health emergencies, ensuring rapid responses to outbreaks.

Questions for the Candidates

  • How will your party strengthen Canada’s national immunization programs to ensure high vaccine coverage across all populations?
  • Does your party support the development of a national immunization registry to track vaccine coverage across Canada?
  • What measures will your party implement to combat vaccine misinformation and improve public trust in immunization?
  • Will your party increase funding for vaccine research and support domestic vaccine production capacity?
  • How will your party address vaccine hesitancy and promote public health education about immunization?

Resources