Resources for Clients
The Canadian Association of Midwives and the National Aboriginal Council of Midwives have not reviewed the evidence on which these resources are based. Inclusion here does not reflect endorsement.
General Benefits
A History of Vaccines, https://www.historyofvaccines.org/content/about
An educational website reviewing the international history of vaccines starting from the year 1000 in China.
History of Public Health (in Canada), https://www.cpha.ca/history-public-health
An interactive e-book, a virtual expo and 12 great achievements in public health in Canada.
Benefits of immunization: Canadian Immunization Guide, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-1-key-immunization-information/page-3-benefits-immunization.html
Vaccination greatly reduces disease, disability, death and inequity worldwide, https://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/86/2/07-040089/en/
Reviews the benefits of disease control, protection of the unvaccinated population, prevention of related diseases and cancer, societal and other benefits in an international context.
International Governmental Agencies
Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/
The U.S. national organization for public health security, including infectious diseases.
The World Health Organization (WHO), https://www.who.int/immunization/en/
WHO website regarding Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals.
Table 1: Summary of WHO Position Papers – Recommendations for Routine Immunization, https://www.who.int/immunization/policy/Immunization_routine_table1.pdf?ua=1
All WHO recommended vaccinations from birth to adulthood, including specific recommendations for pregnancy.
The Vaccine Safety Net, https://www.vaccinesafetynet.org/
A global network of 89 member websites from 40 countries in 35 diffrent languages with information on vaccine safety; VSN websites are evaluated and certified by the WHO.
National Governmental Agencies
National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/national-advisory-committee-on-immunization-naci.html
The Canadian informational hub for medical, scientific and public health advice on immunization. The NACI makes recommendations for the use of vaccines in Canada.
Canadian Immunization Guide, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/canadian-immunization-guide.html
Immunize Canada, https://immunize.ca/
Supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada, this site provides further information on National Advisory Commitee on Immunization (NACI) recommendations.
British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BC CDC), http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/immunization-vaccines
A very comprehensive website, it includes some BC-specific information but is applicable to people outside of BC.
National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health, https://www.nccih.ca/en/
INDIGENOUS – Offers many wonderful videos, posters, podcasts and reports on Indigenous health & wellness.
Provincial & Territorial Governmental Agencies
Provincial and territorial immunization information, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/provincial-territorial-immunization-information.html
INDIGENOUS – The BC FNHA is responsible for programs and services formerly delivered by Health Canada and partners with over 200 First Nations communities across BC. Much of its information is applicable to people outside of BC.
Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) Vaccination and Prevention of Infectious Diseases, https://www.creehealth.org/public-health/vaccination-and-prevention-infectious-diseases
INDIGENOUS – Immunization program information for the Cree territory of Quebec (Eeyou Itschee).
Infectious Diseases and Vaccines
This podcast will Kill you: Season 2, Episode 26 Vaccines Part 1: Let’s Hear It For Maurice, http://thispodcastwillkillyou.com/2019/05/16/episode-26-vaccines-part-1-lets-hear-it-for-maurice/
Two disease ecologists have fun explaining and discussing epidemiological topics in an entertaining way. This episode focuses on immunization (Part I)
This podcast will Kill you: Season 2, Episode 27 Vaccines Part 2: Have You Thanked Your Immune System Lately?, https://thispodcastwillkillyou.com/2019/05/21/ep-27-vaccines-part-2-have-you-thanked-your-immune-system-lately/
Two disease ecologists have fun explaining and discussing epidemiological topics in an entertaining way. This episode focuses on immunization (Part II)
(Infectious) Diseases that affect First Nations and Inuit Communities, https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1569867927914/1569867958318
INDIGENOUS – Understand some of the infectious diseases First Nations and Inuit are at risk for and get facts on programs to help prevent and manage illness.
Immunization (Vaccine preventable diseases), https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/immunization-vaccine-preventable-diseases
Explains infectious diseases & public health concepts for Indigenous people.
Influenza (Flu)
Flu (influenza): FluWatch surveillance, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/flu-influenza/influenza-surveillance.html
FluWatch is Canada’s national surveillance system that monitors the spread of flu and flu-like illnesses. Reports with information on flu activity in Canada are posted every Friday.
Influenza Q & A for Pregnant Women and their families, https://eportal.mountsinai.ca/Microbiology/faq/infobro/Influenza-Pregnancy.pdf
A flu in pregnancy Q&A.
Influenza Information, https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/influenza-information
INDIGENOUS – Flu information for Indigenous consumers.
Seasonal Influenza, Avian Influenza and Pandemic Influenza, https://ipac-canada.org/influenza-resources.php
Comprehensive information about different flu strains.
Populations at risk for severe or complicated influenza illness: systematic review and meta-analysis, https://www.bmj.com/content/347/bmj.f5061
Systematic review of over 240 articles representing over 600,000 participants at risk factor-outcomes combinations for participants with influenza. Conclusion: The level of evidence to support risk factors for influenza related complications is low and some well accepted risk factors, including pregnancy and ethnicity, could not be confirmed as risks. Rigorous and adequately powered studies are needed.
Pertussis
Pertussis (whooping cough), https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/vaccine-preventable-diseases/pertussis-whooping-cough.html
Important Information on Pertussis (Whooping Cough), https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/whooping-cough-pertussis
INDIGENOUS – An information and resource page on pertussis for Indigenous peoples.
Pertussis (Whooping cough) for Health Professionals, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/vaccine-preventable-diseases/pertussis-whooping-cough/health-professionals.html
While created for health care providers, this comprehensive webpage provides information everyone can understand.
Pertussis in Canada: 2012, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/reports-publications/canada-communicable-disease-report-ccdr/monthly-issue/2014-40/ccdr-volume-40-3-february-7-2014/ccdr-volume-40-3-february-7-2014-3.html
Regarding the pertussis outbreak in Canada in 2012. This outbreak was a factor that led to the first recommendation for Pertussis (Tdap) vaccination in pregnancy in 2013.
Asymptomatic transmission and the resurgence of Bordetella pertussis, https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-015-0382-8
About Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis Vaccines, https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/dtap-tdap-td/hcp/about-vaccine.html
Discusses possible reasons for increasing frequency of pertusiis outbreaks.
Whooping cough resurgence due to vaccinated people not knowing they’re infectious?, https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150624071018.htm
Readable article summarizing a 2015 study that, while looking at over 30 studies to investigate reasons for the increase in pertusiis cases in the U.S. in 2012, found evidence of asymptomatic transmission from individuals vaccinated with the currently used acellular B. pertussis vaccines.
Tuberculosis
The time is now – eliminating tuberculosis in Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/corporate/publications/chief-public-health-officer-reports-state-public-health-canada/eliminating-tuberculosis.html
INDIGENOUS – An excellent overview of biology, epidimiology, risk factors and the landscape of TB in Canada today.
Vaccines
Find a vaccinating clinic, https://vaccines411.ca/en
An online search engine and website.
CANimmunize, https://www.canimmunize.ca/en/home
A free app that securely stores vaccination records.
Understanding How Vaccines Work, https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/conversations/downloads/vacsafe-understand-color-office.pdf
Explains the immune system, how vaccines are made and vaccination schedules.
Vaccination during pregnancy, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3093587/
Discusses live vaccines – like Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) and Varicella – and inactive vaccines – like Hepatitis B and Tetanus in pregnancy.
Influenza Vaccine – Effectiveness, Benefits, Risks
Flu clinics across Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/flu-influenza/flu-clinics-across-canada.html
A list of flu vaccine clinics in Canada, by province.
The seasonal flu and the flu shot: protect yourself, protect your community, https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1570037443226/1570037485313
INDIGENOUS – Information about the flu vaccine for Indigenous people.
Influenza Vaccinations for All Pregnant Women? Better Evidence Is Needed, https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/15/9/2034/htm
Detailed discussion of the quality and types of evidence used to determine the effectiveness and safety of flu vaccines. Conclusion: Consistent with the Cochrane reviewers’ conclusions, further trials for influenza vaccines with appropriate study designs and comparison groups are required before promoting universal seasonal influenza vaccinations of pregnant women. Meanwhile, vaccination in second to third trimester should be offered while communicating the uncertainties that still exist, promoting informed choices.
Vaccines for preventing influenza in healthy adults, https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD001269.pub6/full?highlightAbstract=influenza%7Cvaccin%7Cpregnancy%7Cinfluenz%7Cwithdrawn%7Cpregnanc%7CvaccinationThis systematic review concludes that inactivated vaccines can reduce the proportion of healthy adults (including pregnant people) who have the flu and flu-like illness (ILI) but that their impact is modest.
Tdap Vaccine – Effectiveness, Benefits, Risks
Q & A on Tdap Vaccination Against Pertussis, https://www.pregnancyinfo.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/MCC_11776_Pertussis_WhoopingCough_QAInfographic_PRESS.pdf
Handout on Tdap vaccine in pregnancy; includes easy to understand infographics.
Immunological and Clinical Benefits of Maternal Immunization Against Pertussis: A Systematic Review, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40121-019-00264-7
A systematic review of multiple studies conducted in diverse settings between 1995 and 2018 has confirmed the effectiveness of pertussis vaccination during pregnancy in preventing pertussis in infants prior to receipt of their first vaccine and beyond.
Safety and effectiveness of acellular pertussis vaccination during pregnancy: a systematic review, https://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12879-020-4824-3
A systematic review to assess the safety and effectiveness of pertussis vaccination in pregnancy after it was implemented in several countries. Overall conclusion: the Tdap vaccine in pregnancy provides effective protection against complications in unvaccinated infants and the benefits generally outweigh the risks. It also detected an associated increase in the risk for fever and chorioamnionitis but with no associated sequelae.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Safety and Immunogenicity of Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine Immunization During Pregnancy and Subsequent Infant Immune Response, https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/67/7/1063/5053576
This study was not large enough to detect rare adverse events or adverse pregnancy outcomes. Conclusion: on-going surveillance of pertussis in early childhood is needed when pregnant women are being immunized.
Infant & Child Vaccines
Your child’s vaccination schedule, https://www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/apps/vaccination-schedule/index-eng.php
An online tool to find a child’s recommended immunization schedule per province and age.
Immunization and Vaccines, https://www.cps.ca/en/education/immunization-and-vaccines
The Canadian Pediatric Scoiety’s immunization information for parents and caregivers.
CPS Caring for Kids: Information for parents from Canada’s pediatricians, https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/immunizations-index
CPS printable Fact Sheets on infant, child and teen vaccines.
Vaccines for children: Vaccine safety, concerns and side effects, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/vaccination-children/safety-concerns-side-effects.html
Don’t wait, vaccinate: a guide to immunization for First Nations and Inuit parents and caregivers, https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1582148260779/1582148285602#s4
Vaccine Ingredients (Components)
Canadian Immunization Guide Part 4-Active Vaccines, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines.html
Provides a broad range of information about Health Canada authorized vaccine product monographs.
FAQs: Product Monographs posted to the Health Canada website, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/drug-products/applications-submissions/guidance-documents/product-monograph/frequently-asked-questions-product-monographs-posted-health-canada-website.html
Contents of immunizing agents available for use in Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-1-key-immunization-information/page-15-contents-immunizing-agents-available-use-canada.html
A comprehensive list of vaccine components available in Canada. Includes brand name, route, vaccine type, immunogen, adjuvant, and potential allergens.
Drug Product Database, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/drug-products/drug-product-database.html
A way to search for vaccine monographs.
Product Monographs, https://vaccines411.ca/en/healthcare-professionals/product-monograph
Links to product monograph information for vaccines available to Canadians.
Top vaccine concerns and why we shouldn’t worry about them, https://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/blog/top-vaccine-concerns-and-why-we-shouldnt-worry-about-them
Reviews the safety of vaccine components.
A systematic review of potential health risks posed by pharmaceutical, occupational and consumer exposures to metallic and nanoscale aluminum, aluminum oxides, aluminum hydroxide, and its soluble salts, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/10408444.2014.934439
A systematic review which includes “justification for routine addition of Al to vaccines is required” in its conclusions.
Critical analysis of reference studies on the toxicokinetics of aluminum-based adjuvants, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0162013417303380?via%3Dihub
Reviews 3 studies commonly referenced when discussing AI in vaccines.
Vaccines and Autism: A Tale of Shifting Hypotheses, https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/48/4/456/284219
Twenty studies performed in several countries have shown that neither thimerosal nor the MMR vaccine causes autism. Studied populations are large enough to detect rare associations.
Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264410X14006367
This meta-analysis of 5 cohort studies (with over 1 million subjects) and 5 case-control studies (with over 9000 people) concludes vaccinations are not associated with the development of autism or ASD.
Safety & Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI)
Canada’s eight-component vaccine safety system: A primer for health care workers, https://www.cps.ca/en/documents/position/vaccine-safety-system
An excellent summary of the eight components of Canada’s vaccine safety system.
Immunization in Canada – Canadian National Report on Immunization, https://web.archive.org/web/20080414131846/http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/publicat/ccdr-rmtc/97vol23/23s4/23s4b_e.html
Outlines the Canadian process for licensing, adverse event reporting and Canada Health Act laws.
Vaccine safety and pharmacovigilance: Canadian Immunization Guide, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-2-vaccine-safety/page-2-vaccine-safety.html
Learn how vaccine safety is assured and monitored from pre-licensure to post-immunization and who is responsible for what in Canada.
Historical Vaccine Safety Concerns, https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/concerns-history.html
Explains past vaccine safety concerns, how they have been resolved, and what we have learned.
Canadian Adverse Events Following Immunization Surveillance System (CAEFISS), https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/canadian-adverse-events-following-immunization-surveillance-system-caefiss.html#f1
Explanation and breakdown of adverse events reporting system in Canada.
IMPACT, Canada’s Immunization Monitoring Program ACTive, https://www.cps.ca/en/impact
IMPACT is a paediatric hospital-based national active surveillance network for AEFIs, vaccine failures and selected infectious diseases.
Reporting Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) in Canada: User guide to completion and submission of the AEFI reports, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/reporting-adverse-events-following-immunization/user-guide-completion-submission-aefi-reports.html
How to report an AEFI.
Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI) Report Form, https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/phac-aspc/documents/services/immunization/aefi-form-jan10-eng.pdf
This is the actual form required to report an AEFI. For some more detailed instruction go to: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/reporting-adverse-events-following-immunization.html
Canada Vigilance adverse reaction online database – Report a side effect, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/medeffect-canada/adverse-reaction-reporting.html
The Canada Vigilance Adverse Reaction Online Database contains information about suspected adverse reactions (also known as side effects) to health products, including but not exclusive to vaccines.This is the form to report a side effect from a vaccine.
Contact information for Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI), https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/immunization/federal-provincial-territorial-contact-information-aefi-related-questions.html
List of contact numbers by province/territory.
Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/guillain-barre-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20362793
A good overview of GBS.
Immunization & Informed Choice
Is vaccination mandatory? https://immunize.ca/immunization-mandatory-canada
Canadian legislation around immunization.
Informed Consent to Vaccination: Theoretical, legal and empirical insights, https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3319395
Drawing on the extensive theoretical and empirical literature on informed consent, the article sets out what an ideal informed process for vaccination consists of.
Informed Consent: Are Canadian Health Care Professionals Really Getting It? https://www.ttlhealthlaw.com/health-law-blog/details/health-law-blog/2014/12/02/informed-consent-are-canadian-health-care-professionals-really-getting-it-#:~:text=In%20order%20for%20health%20care,an%20opportunity%20to%20ask%20questions
An outline of the legal components of informed consent.
The Canadian Midwifery Model of Care Position Statement, https://canadianmidwives.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/FINALMoCPS_O09102018.pdf
Outlines the model of midwifery in Canada, including the principle of Informed Choice.
The legacy of midwifery and the women’s health movement in contemporary discourses of patient choice and empowerment,https://www.cjmrp.com/files/v15n1-macdonald-choice-empowerment.pdf
This commentary traces the roots of patient empowerment and patient-centred care to the radical beginnings of the women’s health movement and feminist critiques of medicalized childbirth.
Physician Dismissal of Vaccine Refusers: A Legal and Ethical Analysis, https://mjlhmcgill.files.wordpress.com/2020/03/mjlh-13.1-faour-2020-03-17.pdf
A nuanced look into physicians who are responding to vaccine hesitancy/refusal by dismissing refusers and their families from their practice.
When is it permissible to dismiss a family who refuses vaccines? Legal, ethical and public health perspectives, https://academic.oup.com/pch/article/12/10/843/2647887
”If patients are being dismissed from care, it is fair to say that, given the current shortage of primary care physicians, referrals to other physicians may not be possible. If this is indeed the case, then dismissing a patient due to a clash in values has significant legal implications, raises ethical issues and negative population health implications.”
Vaccine Reporting Regulations
British Columbia Vaccination Status Reporting Regulation, https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/vaccination-status-reporting
British Columbia’s requirements for immunization status reporting for school-aged children include home-schooled children. They do not apply to children attending schools on reservations.
British Columbia Vaccination Status Reporting Legislation, https://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/oic/oic_cur/0376_2019
Outlines immunization reporting obligations for guardians, health care providers and medical officers.
New Brunswick Proof of Immunization Policy, https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/ed/pdf/K12/policies-politiques/e/706A.pdf
Outlines New Brunswick’s policy and procedures regarding immunization status reporting for children attending primary or secondary school.
Ontario Immunization of School Pupil’s Act (ISPA), http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/immunization/ispa.aspx
Details Ontario’s requirements for immunization status reporting for children attending primary or secondary school.
Vaccine Exemptions
Vaccine Choice Canada – Legal Exemptions Forms, https://vaccinechoicecanada.com/exemptions/legal-exemption-forms/
British Columbia Non-Vaccination – Medical Contraindication Form, https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/forms/2369fil.pdf
Guardians are required to submit statements if their child has a medical contraindication to vaccination or the family intends not to vaccinate.
Ontario Vaccine Medical Exemption Form (Students), http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/FormDetail?OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH=&ENV=WWE&TIT=medical+exemption&NO=014-4895-64E
Form required for medical exemption from vaccination for school-aged children.
Ontario Vaccine Social Conscience or Religious Belief Exemption Form (students), http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/FormDetail?OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH=&ENV=WWE&TIT=Statement+of+Conscience+or+Religious+Belief&NO=014-4897-64E
Form required for social conscience/religious exemption from vaccination for school–aged children. Completion of a public health information session is also required.
Ontario Vaccine Social Conscience or Religious Belief Exemption Form (parents of daycare children and employees, owners and family members of home-based daycares), http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/FormDetail?OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH=1&ENV=WWE&TIT=exemption+immunization&NO=010-3042E
Form required for social conscience/religious exemption from vaccination for family of daycare-aged children.
Ontario Vaccine Medical Exemption Form (parents of daycare children and employees, owners and family members of home-based daycares), http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/FormDetail?OpenForm&ACT=RDR&TAB=PROFILE&SRCH=1&ENV=WWE&TIT=exemption+immunization&NO=010-3041E
Form required for medical exemption from vaccination for family of daycare-aged children.
Ontario – How to Find a Commissioner or Notary Public, https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/notary_public/faqs.php#FIND
A signature from a Commissioner or Public Notary is required for social conscience/religious exemption from vaccination.
New Brunswick Immunization Exemption Form for School Entry, https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/h-s/pdf/en/CDC/HealthProfessionals/412-SchoolExceptionForm.pdf
Form required for medical or religious/social conscience exemptions from vaccination.
Understanding Research & Identifying Misinformation on the Internet
What researchers mean by…. https://www.iwh.on.ca/what-researchers-mean-by
Explains the terminology used in research.
How to Read a Scientific Study (and why it’s pretty hard), http://v6.examinecdn.com/learn/2015-ERDStudyGuide.pdf
Understanding medico-scientific research.
Making Sense of Medical Research, https://cwhn.ca/node/40799
Understanding medical research.
A Parent’s Guide to Immunization Information on the Internet, https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/immunization_information_on_the_internet
Some tips on how to assess the credibility of an online information source on immunization.
Bad News, https://www.getbadnews.com/#intro
Pretend to be a cunning fake news creator in this social impact game that teaches how to judge internet information. Available in many languages and in a Junior version.
Indigenous
Wellness for First Nations, https://www.fnha.ca/wellness/wellness-for-first-nations
Online wellness resources for Indigneous people.
Planning Your Journey to Wellness: A Road Map, https://www.fnha.ca/WellnessSite/WellnessDocuments/FNHA_Wellness_Map.pdf
A wellness ‘roadmap” – workbook/diary.
Wellness Diary, https://www.fnha.ca/WellnessSite/WellnessDocuments/Wellness_Diary.pdf
A health & wellness daily organizer.
First Nations Traditional Food Facts Sheets, https://www.fnha.ca/WellnessSite/WellnessDocuments/Traditional_Food_Facts_Sheets.pdf
Traditional foods information; focuses on BC First Nations foods.
Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide – First Nations, Inuit and Metis, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/reports-publications/eating-well-canada-food-guide-first-nations-inuit-metis.html
An Overview of Aboriginal Health in Canada, https://www.ccnsa-nccah.ca/docs/context/FS-OverviewAbororiginalHealth-EN.pdf
Colour-Coded Healthcare: the Impact of Race and Racism on Canadians’ Health, https://www.wellesleyinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Colour-Coded-Health-Care-Sheryl-Nestel.pdf
TB and Aboriginal People, https://www.cpha.ca/tb-and-aboriginal-people
History of TB and Indigenous people in Canada.
Communicating Risk to Aboriginal Peoples: First Nations and Metis Responses to H1N1 Risk Messages, https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0071106
The focus of this paper is on First Nations and Metis people in Manitoba. While risk communication practice has improved, ‘one size’ messaging campaigns do not work effectively, particularly when communicating about who is most ‘at-risk’. Public health agencies need to pay more attention to the contexts of Indigenous peoples.
Involve Indigenous People in Vaccine Development, Disease Expert Says, https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/involve-indigenous-people-in-vaccine-development-disease-expert-says-1.5071275
Discusses using a different, grassroots strategy with Indigenous communities to develop vaccines.
First Nation Infants Subject to ‘Human Experimental Work’ for TB Vaccine in 1930s-40s, https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/first-nation-infants-subject-to-human-experimental-work-for-tb-vaccine-in-1930s-40s/
First Nation infants were used for Saskatchewan trials of a tuberculosis vaccine in the 1930s and 1940s.
Cultural Safety Mindfulness during a Pandemic, https://ubccpd.ca/sites/ubccpd.ca/files/Indigenous-Patient-Led-Cultural-Safety.pdf
Reviews some of Indigenous history with infectious diseases and public health. Outlines trauma-informed and culturally safe care for Indigenous people in relation to infectious diseases and pandemics.
Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine – Canadian Immunization Guide, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-2-bacille-calmette-guerin-vaccine.html
Hepatitis A Vaccine – Canadian Immunization Guide, https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-6-hepatitis-a-vaccine.html
Midwifery Core Competencies, Professional Standards and Scope of Practice Regarding Immunization
Studies on Healthcare Provider Immunization Knowledge
Vaccination Against Influenza in Pregnancy: A Survey of Canadian Maternity Care Providers, https://www.jogc.com/article/S1701-2163(18)30703-5/fulltext
This study assesses Canadian maternity care providers’ (including midwives) knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding influenza vaccination in pregnancy.
Survey of Healthcare Providers’ Views and Experiences with Vaccine Hesitancy Final Report, https://epe.lac-bac.gc.ca/100/200/301/pwgsc-tpsgc/por-ef/public_health_agency_canada/2018/118-16-e/report.pdf
This survey assesses health care providers’ experience with vaccine hesitancy and parental concerns, which resources they use, and their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs on vaccine effectiveness & safety. The study included 297 Registered Midwives in Canada.
Opinion et formation des sages-femmes québécoises sur la vaccination, https://www.inspq.qc.ca/pdf/publications/1833_Sage-Femme_Vaccination.pdf
This study looks at the knowledge, training, attitudes and practice of Quebec midwives and midwifery students regarding immunization. In French only.
By Province
Alberta
Enhanced Midwifery Regulations Proclaimed Under the Health Professions Act, https://alberta-midwives.ca/newsroom/enhanced-midwifery-regulations-proclaimed-under-the-health-professions-act
New changes will have taken effect April 2019. Supplemental information about the HPA Transition for AB midwives mentions the ability to “prescribe or administer vaccines” but there are no specifics.
College of Alberta Midwives Standards and Policies, https://www.albertamidwives.org/site/about/college_policies_guidelines?nav=sidebar
List of standards, policies and guidelines for AB midwives, including guidelines on prescribing drugs [as of Jul. 2020, drug list does not include vaccines, does include Hep B immunoglobin]
British Columbia
Health Professions Act – Midwives Regulation, https://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/281_2008
Outlines midwifery scope of practice – lists “vaccines” as a general category and does not give specifics.
Standards, Limits and Conditions for Prescribing, Ordering and Administering Therapeutics, https://www.cmbc.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Standards-Limits-and-Conditions-for-Prescribing-Ordering-and-Administering-Therapeutics.pdf
Specific vaccines listed under “vaccine” header, updated to March 2018 – Influenza, Hepatitis B, MMR, Varicella and Tdap included.
Cree Territory of Quebec (Eeyou Itschee)
Act Respecting Health Services and Social Services for Cree Native Persons (Chapter S-5) (1991, c. 42, s.594; 1994, c.23, s.20), http://legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/ShowDoc/cs/S-5
IMs Practicing Under Exemption
Indigenous Midwifery Knowledge and Skills: A Framework of Competencies, https://indigenousmidwifery.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/NACM_CompetencyFramework_2019.pdf
Manitoba
Core Competencies, https://www.midwives.mb.ca/document/4604/core-competencies.pdf
The Midwifery Act (C.C.S.M. c. M125), https://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/regs/current/_pdf-regs.php?reg=68/2000
Schedule B (Section 13) lists drugs and devices within midwifery scope – BCG, Hepatitis, MMR, Influenza vaccines are all listed.
Practice Standards, https://www.midwives.mb.ca/site/midwifery/midwifery_in_manitoba/standards?nav=sidebar
New Brunswick
Bill 75 – Midwifery Act, https://www.gnb.ca/legis/bill/FILE/56/2/Bill-75-e.htm
Vaccines don’t seem to be listed.
Midwifery Act (O.C. 2010-416), https://www.gnb.ca/0062/acts/BBR-2010/2010-113.pdf
Northwest Territories
Standards of Practice for Registered Midwives in the Northwest Territories for Prescribing, Ordering, and Administering Drugs/Controlled Substances and Medical Supplies/Equipment, https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/hss/files/resources/nwt-midwifery-practice-prescribing-drugs-controlled.pdf
Vaccines don’t seem to be listed.
Nova Scotia
Midwifery Regulations (Drugs and Minor Surgical and Invasive Procedures, 50(1)), https://novascotia.ca/just/regulations/regs/midwifery.htm
Lists “vaccines” but no specifics.
Regulations Respecting Midwives, http://mrcns.ca/images/uploads/MID-Midwifery_Regulations-SchA-APPROVED.pdf
Midwifery Scope of Practice, http://mrcns.ca/images/uploads/Scope_of_Practice_amended_Sept_2014.pdf
Nunavik
The Practice in Nunavik, http://www.osfq.org/admission/travailler-au-quebec/?lang=en
Nunavut
Nunavut Immunization Certification Policy, https://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/nunavut_immunization_certification_-_section_6_-_nunavut_immunization_manual_final_july_2018_0.pdf
Outlines certification protocols and scope of practices.
Midwifery Profession Practice Regulations, Nu Reg 028-2009, https://www.canlii.org/en/nu/laws/regu/nu-reg-028-2009/latest/nu-reg-028-2009.html
5(1): “The drugs and substances that a registered midwife may prescribe and administer are (a) any drug or substance that may lawfully be purchased or acquired without a prescription; and (b) the drugs and substances set out in Schedule E, Part 1” – vaccines are listed under part 1 “for women of reproductive age and infants” but gives no specifics.
Ontario
O. Reg. 884/93: Designated Drugs un Midwifery Act, 1991 S.O. 1991, c 31, https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/930884
Lists specific vaccines that midwives can independently administer.
Professional Standards for Midwives, http://www.cmo.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Professional-Standards.pdf
Lists professional standards for midwives, including being competent in all aspects of practice.
Changes to the Prescribing and Administering Drug Standard (includes link to original document), https://www.cmo.on.ca/changes-to-the-prescribing-and-administering-drugs-standard/
Most recent updates to Drug Standard.
Quebec
Regulation respecting drugs that a midwife may prescribe or administer in the practice of midwifery (Chapter S-0.1, r.12), http://legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/ShowDoc/cr/S-0.1,%20r.%2012/
Lists specific vaccines within scope – MMR (for pregnant parent); Hepatitis B vaccine (child)
Saskatchewan
Midwifery Regulations (M-14.1 Reg 1), http://www.saskmidwives.ca/legislation
Link to Saskatchewan midwives’ site with option to download Midwifery Regulations; mentions ability to prescribe drugs “as outlined in The Drug Schedules Regulations 1997” but no specific drugs.
Midwifery Practice (Codes, Competencies and Model of Practice), http://www.saskmidwives.ca/aboutmidwifery
A list of competencies and standards.
The Drug Schedules Regulation, 1997, https://scp.in1touch.org/document/4003/Drug%20Schedule%20Regulations%201997_2014.pdf
The Canadian Association of Midwives and the National Aboriginal Council of Midwives has not reviewed the evidence on which these resources are based. Inclusion here does not reflect endorsement.