What to Expect at an Immunization Clinic

York Region offers immunization clinics, including:

York Region is offering a limited number of appointments for flu and COVID-19 vaccines to children six months to four years old.

Reducing Pain and Anxiety

Many people may feel anxious about getting needles. Public Health nurses reduce pain and anxiety by working quickly and using various techniques to help the person before, during and after injections.

Anxiety about medical procedures can sometimes cause fainting, particularly in females. Fainting after vaccines is a symptom of anxiety, not a side effect from a vaccine.

Here are some ways to minimize pain and anxiety for your child:

  • Have an open supportive discussion about getting needles
  • Remind your child to wear a short sleeve top
  • Encourage a healthy snack before getting needles.
  • Consider the use of a topical (on the skin) pain-reducing cream prior to getting needles such as Emla

Encourage your child to do the following when being immunized:

  • Maintain an upright position and relax the arm
  • Take deep breaths
  • Use distractions such as books, music, video game

For more information about reducing pain of vaccinations:

When you Arrive

A nurse clinic coordinator will greet you and help determine which vaccine is required. All elementary school students require written parental or legal guardian consent to receive any vaccine. The immunizing nurse will ask a series of questions to determine vaccine eligibility..

If for any reason it is not safe or it is inadvisable for you to receive the vaccine at this time, information is provided regarding other options.

Vaccine Injections

All immunizations are given through a very small needle in the upper arm. You can choose which arm you would like to receive the vaccine. It is safe to give several immunizations at the same time.

Common side effects may include mild pain, swelling or redness where the needle was given.

If the side effects do not go away after a day or two, or if there has been a more severe reaction, call 1-877-464-9675 ext. 73452 and ask to speak to a nurse in the Vaccination Clinics Program during regular business hours, or contact a health care provider to seek medical care. Severe side effects are very rare.

After the Injection

Everyone will be observed in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving their immunization and may leave after this time, provided they are feeling well. All usual activities may be resumed after being immunized.

Every person who receives a vaccine will receive a vaccine record with instructions related to side effects, further doses if required and where to call with any questions. The nurse can update the yellow immunization card if it is available.

For more immunization information or to speak to a nurse in the Vaccination Clinics Program, call 1-877-464-9675 ext. 73452.

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