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Immunization policies in Canadian medical schools
M S Rowan1, A O Carter, V J Walker
1Department of Health Care and Promotion, CMA, Ottawa, Ont.
Summary
Canadian medical schools have varied immunization policies for students. A national vaccination program and guidelines are recommended to ensure comprehensive student protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Prevention
Background:
- Medical students require protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Understanding current immunization policies in Canadian medical schools is crucial for student safety and public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the immunization policies for students in Canadian medical schools.
- To identify methods used to promote and implement these vaccination policies.
Main Methods:
- A mail survey using a 12-item questionnaire was distributed to all 16 Canadian medical schools.
- Telephone follow-up was employed to ensure a high response rate from deans or their designates.
Main Results:
- Policies varied significantly, with rubella vaccination required by 69% and tetanus, diphtheria, and hepatitis B by 63% of schools.
- Measles and poliomyelitis vaccination were required by 56%, mumps by 50%, influenza by 19%, and typhoid fever by only one school.
- Schools utilized diverse strategies for policy promotion, vaccination accessibility, payment, and compliance monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Canadian medical schools exhibit unique immunization requirements for students.
- The study highlights the need for national guidelines and a coordinated vaccination program for medical students.