The Institut de la santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) says that fewer Quebec babies are being vaccinated.
Vaccinations are on the decline in the province. A quarter of babies are behind schedule or do not receive the recommended doses at all.
According to a study of parents with children under two years, the dates and doses of vaccinations are not being respected. This is despite the fact that these vaccinations prevent many dangerous childhood illnesses like meningitis, measles, rubella, mumps or polio.
Experts say: "These children are not optimally protected for several months which can have serious consequences. Some illnesses like meningitis are still around and can affect young children."
It seems that 75% of children aged 15-17 months are up to date with their vaccinations. This rate rises to 77.6% in children aged 24-26 months. But that is a decline of 2.2% since 2006.
The experts add: "The major point to improve is not to persuade parents of the benefits of vaccinations but rather the importance of getting them done on time."
A vaccine’s effectiveness is greater if it is given at the prescribed time.