A child's vaccination record in Quebec is the most important health document of their early years. It accompanies the child from birth through adolescence and records protections that can last a lifetime. However, amidst medical visits, booster shots, school vaccinations, and evolving recommendations, it's not always easy to keep track of everything.
This guide reviews the recommended vaccination schedule for children in Quebec in 2026, according to the Quebec Immunization Program of the MSSS.
Vaccinations in the first year of life
The first weeks and months of life are the period when infants are most vulnerable to serious infections. The hepatitis B vaccine is administered at birth in Quebec maternity wards. At two months, the series of vaccinations against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and Haemophilus influenzae type b, grouped into a five-component combination vaccine, begins. The pneumococcal vaccine is also given at two months.
These vaccines are repeated at four months to consolidate immunity. At twelve months, a new series includes the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, the group C meningococcal vaccine, and boosters for previous vaccines. The chickenpox vaccine is administered at eighteen months.
Preschool and school-age vaccines
Between 18 months and 4 years old, booster shots are administered to maintain adequate protection. Between 4-6 years old, a booster shot for the combined diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis-polio vaccine is recommended, as well as a second dose of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine.
In 4th grade, the school vaccination program includes the human papillomavirus vaccine for girls and boys, as well as a meningococcal booster. In 3rd grade (secondary school), a booster for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis is administered.
Recommended but not covered vaccines
Some vaccines are recommended but not covered by the public program for all children. The seasonal flu vaccine is free for children aged 6 to 23 months under the public program. For older children without specific medical conditions, it is available at a low cost in pharmacies. The meningococcal ACWY vaccine may be recommended in certain situations, particularly for travel to at-risk areas.
The vaccination record and its importance
The vaccination record is an official document that must be carefully kept and presented at each medical appointment, when registering for daycare or school, and during international travel. If lost, it is possible to reconstruct the vaccination record by contacting the CLSC or the doctor who administered the vaccinations. The record is also accessible through the provincial computerized system for authorized healthcare professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Childhood Vaccinations
Can vaccines be given late if the child is ill on the due date?
Yes, a delay in the vaccination schedule does not compromise vaccine efficacy. Missed doses can be made up at any time. The series does not need to be restarted from the beginning.
Do vaccines cause autism?
No. This claim, based on a fraudulent study published in 1998 and since retracted, has been refuted by dozens of studies involving millions of children in many countries. There is no scientific link between vaccination and autism.
Can you receive multiple vaccines during the same visit?
Yes, the simultaneous administration of several vaccines is safe, does not diminish their efficacy, and is recommended to simplify the schedule and reduce the number of visits. Combination vaccines were developed precisely for this purpose.
When to consult a healthcare professional
If you have any doubts about your child's vaccination status, if any vaccines have been missed, or if you wish to review the vaccination schedule, a medical consultation can be used to check and update the vaccination record.
A doctor or nurse practitioner can review your child's immunization record, prescribe any missing vaccines, and advise you on recommended vaccines based on their situation. An in-person visit at one of the service locations Omicron Clinic in Quebec allows quick access.
Vaccination Services – Omicron Clinic
Omicron Clinic
Need to consult a doctor?
Treatment within 24-48 hours. In-clinic or telemedicine, anywhere in Quebec.
Insurance receipts. 7j/7. No family doctor required.
