As families fill their shopping carts with backpacks, notebooks, and lunch items, doctors say there’s another important back-to-school list that needs attention.
Routine vaccinations, food-allergy plans, children’s mental health, and the rising dangers of e-bikes and e-scooters are all major concerns as kids return to school.
Doctors also emphasize that parents, especially mothers, shouldn’t forget about their own health while managing the busy school year ahead.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have in health care because they protect not only the individual child but also those around them,” said Dr. Rebecca Hicks, a family physician and president of the Ontario Medical Association.
Hicks mentioned that the start of school is a great time for parents to check vaccination records and make sure kids are up to date on their routine shots.
This renewed focus comes as public health officials keep an eye on measles cases in Ontario and across Canada.
Since measles is one of the most contagious diseases out there, doctors stress that keeping vaccination rates high is key to protecting both students and their communities.
“With the recent measles outbreak, the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is probably top of mind for many parents,” Hicks said. “Beyond that, all routine childhood immunizations should be kept up to date.”
Ontario’s immunization schedule offers protection against illnesses like measles, meningitis, hepatitis B, whooping cough, and tetanus; several vaccines are given through school programs during teenage years.
Hicks acknowledged some parents still feel unsure about vaccines after COVID-19 but encouraged families to talk with their family doctor instead of relying on online information.
“Physicians are ready, willing and able to discuss both the effectiveness and safety of vaccines,” she said. “Vaccines are effective and incredibly safe.”
In addition to vaccinations, Hicks pointed out that schools and families should be prepared for serious food allergies.
“Any child at risk of an anaphylactic reaction should have a clear emergency plan in place,” she said.
That means making sure teachers, caregivers, and school staff know about the allergy and that non-expired Epi Pens are easily accessible.
Surge in e-scooter injuries
Another concern that’s growing among doctors is the sharp increase in injuries related to e-bikes and e-scooters.
Recent data from Canada shows hundreds were hospitalized due to e-scooter-related injuries last year; severe pediatric injuries have led to calls for better safety measures, clearer rules, and stricter enforcement regarding age limits.
These statistics raise alarms particularly for children and young teenagers.
Hospitalizations among kids aged 15 or younger have increased significantly; pediatric specialists have reported more serious head injuries associated with these devices.
For doctors, this worry stems from many families underestimating how fast these motorized devices can go as well as their potential risks.
“It’s important to remember that once something is motorized it’s no longer simply a bicycle or scooter. It’s a motorized vehicle,” Hicks said.
“I think it’s important to avoid these devices for younger children. For any wheeled device helmets are essential.”
Medical professionals also point out inconsistent municipal regulations regarding these devices; while some areas allow e-scooters under pilot programs others restrict or ban them entirely causing confusion among parents trying to navigate what’s legal versus what’s safe.
“The faster something travels the greater the risk of serious injury,” Hicks stated.
