2011-02-03, 09:08 PM
I don't believe that "freedom" is a good argument against vaccinations, particularly "freedom of religion".
Religion should not put you above the law. That's the exact opposite of what freedom of religion means: the right to be treated fairly no matter your religious beliefs. It's not fair that some religions can get an exemption from vaccines, and atheists (or whatever your personal beliefs) cannot.
I think vaccines, if legislated as mandatory to certain groups (such as children attending public schools), should be administered to every member of the group, except by scientifically based exceptions (weakened immune system, allergies, other conditions that historically make certain vaccines harmful). If you don't want the vaccine every other student is getting, drop out of the public system. There's your choice.
Religion should not put you above the law. That's the exact opposite of what freedom of religion means: the right to be treated fairly no matter your religious beliefs. It's not fair that some religions can get an exemption from vaccines, and atheists (or whatever your personal beliefs) cannot.
I think vaccines, if legislated as mandatory to certain groups (such as children attending public schools), should be administered to every member of the group, except by scientifically based exceptions (weakened immune system, allergies, other conditions that historically make certain vaccines harmful). If you don't want the vaccine every other student is getting, drop out of the public system. There's your choice.