Posted by Yvette on May 18 2008 at 10:57:57:
In Reply to: Re: Selective Immunization posted by Howard Richman on May 16 2008 at 09:15:57:
I know I am choosing which immunizations my children will receive based on my religious views. I do not want them to receive immunizations which come from a line derived from aborted fetuses - however one which was started many years ago may be acceptable if the need/benefit strongly outweighs the act which had taken place and is far removed from the original source - it is confusing, even to me, but I have found relevant Church teaching on the topic. My daughters will NOT receive Gardasil; it is a vaccine for an STD, not for cancer. There is no risk of HPV for someone who is not sexually active. Because the varivax/chicken pox vaccine does not have permanent immunity like contracting the virus, and the risks associated with chicken pox are so rare, I will not be giving it to my younger children, and my daughter who has received 1 dose will not get boosters. The risk (philosophical problem)is that when they are adults/fertile they may/may not have immunity which can be dangerous for their babies. It has not been determined if it is safe for pregant women to receive the chicken pox vaccine. As I learn more and more about vaccines and the number of "required" vaccines keeps increasing I am being more careful about accepting everything that the state determines is neccessary. I am not opposed to quality medical care and I am always trying to make sure my children receive the best I can give them, especially with regard to their medical care. I am also a strongly pro-life Catholic which shapes my views in all areas of my life and in the formation of my children. That is an example of selective immunizations, and is not uncommon.
That being said, I would simply use the medical exemption to make it easier as far as paperwork goes, and then you donīt have to explain anything to the school district. Just keep your own records of immunizations on file at home.
Thanks,
Yvette