Vaccine Safety
Vaccine Standards
Health authorities in Canada take vaccine safety very seriously. For a vaccine to be approved in Canada they must meet Health Canada’s highest standards for production, safety, and potency. No vaccine is 100% effective; however, all the vaccines used for the routine vaccinations of children are very effective in preventing disease and severe illness.
Side Effects
Parents and guardians are often concerned about the side effects and safety of vaccines. The most common side effects are mild pain, fever, swelling, and redness where the vaccine was given. Some infant vaccines may cause a low-grade fever (approximately 38°C) or fussiness for one or two days after having had the needle. Serious side effects from vaccination are rare.
There are many myths circulating about vaccines. We encourage individuals to inform themselves and to get vaccine information from reputable sources. People can also call the Health Unit’s VPD program to have their questions answered.
Informative Websites
To learn more about vaccine safety and current research addressing myths related to vaccination, visit any of these reputable websites: