Vaccination Requirements for School and Work – What You Need to Know

Vaccines help safeguard the people around us, too. From kids heading into kindergarten to adults starting a new job, vaccinations play a big role in keeping schools, workplaces, and communities safe. That’s why many institutions have clear policies when it comes to immunization.

At Rideau MD Clinic, we often get asked: “Do I need vaccines to go to school or work?” The short answer is probably yes. But what’s required can vary depending on your province, industry, and personal circumstances. In this blog, we will break it all down—so whether you’re a parent, a student, or about to start a new job, you know exactly what to expect when it comes to vaccination requirements for school and vaccination requirements for work.

Vaccination Requirements for School

Let’s start with school-age kids and teens. Most provinces in Canada require students to be up to date on certain immunizations before enrolling in public or private schools.

What Are the Mandatory Vaccines for School?

Some of the most common mandatory vaccines for school include:

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis)

• Polio

• Flu

• COVID-19

• Hepatitis B

• Varicella (Chickenpox) – often required for younger students

• Meningococcal and HPV vaccines – required in many provinces for older children

The exact list might vary slightly depending on your province, but most follow national immunization guidelines. These vaccines are typically administered during infancy and early school years, with some booster shots given in adolescence.

What about Exemptions?

In Canada, exemptions for school vaccinations fall into three main categories:

1. Medical Exemptions – If a child has a medical condition that makes vaccination unsafe.

2. Religious Exemptions – Accepted in some provinces if immunization conflicts with religious beliefs.

3. Conscientious or Personal Belief Exemptions – Some provinces, like Ontario, allow this but often require education sessions on vaccine risks and benefits.

Keep in mind that during disease outbreaks, unvaccinated children may be temporarily excluded from school for safety reasons.

Vaccination Requirements for Work

Now, let’s talk about the workplace. Unlike school vaccination rules, vaccination requirements for work tend to depend heavily on the type of job you’re applying for.

Which Jobs Have a Work Vaccine Mandate?

Certain industries, especially those involving close contact with others or exposure to illness, may have a work vaccine mandate in place. These can include:

• Healthcare and long-term care facilities

  
  

   (Hepatitis B/MMR/Varicella/ Tdap/Polio/Flu/COVID-19)

• Education and childcare settings

  
  

   (Hepatitis B/MMR/Varicella/ Tdap/Polio/Flu/COVID-19)

• Food handling and hospitality industries

  
  

   (Hepatitis B/MMR/Varicella/ Tdap/Polio/Flu/COVID-19)

• Travel, border control, or military roles

  
  

   (Hepatitis B/MMR/Varicella/ Tdap/Polio/Flu/COVID-19)

Some employers may also require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or other diseases as a condition of employment—especially if you’re working in a high-risk setting.

Why Do Employers Require Vaccinations?

It’s about public safety. Ensuring workers are vaccinated helps protect customers, coworkers, and the wider community—especially those who are more vulnerable, like infants, the elderly, or people with compromised immune systems.

How to Meet Vaccination Requirements

If you’re unsure of your vaccination status, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think to get up to date.

Where Can You Get Vaccinated?

You can visit:

• Your local clinic (like us at Rideau MD Clinic!)

• A pharmacy for COVID-19

• Your family doctor

• Public health immunization programs

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At Rideau MD Clinic, we offer a wide range of vaccines for school and work—and we’ll help you figure out exactly what you need.

Don’t Have Proof? Here’s What to Do

Lost your records? Not a problem. Many provinces now have digital vaccine tracking (like Ontario’s CANImmunize app). If records aren’t available, your doctor may recommend a blood test (called a titer test) to check for immunity.

Final Thoughts

Vaccines aren’t just a checklist item—they’re one of the most effective tools we have for preventing illness and protecting communities. Whether it’s vaccination requirements for school or vaccination requirements for work, staying informed and prepared goes a long way.

At Rideau MD Clinic, we make it simple. Our expert team provides guidance, quick access to vaccines, and complete documentation to help you meet any school or work requirement. We believe in protecting your health—while making the process as stress-free as possible.

Not sure if you’re up to date? Book appointment at Rideau MD Clinic. We’re happy to help you understand your vaccine needs, no matter where you are in your school or career journey.