Vaccination Persuasive Essay

We have all heard claims regarding the dangers associated with vaccinations. We have also heard numerous cases of people, specifically children, dying from illnesses that could have easily been prevented through vaccination. Whether we agree with the premise of vaccinations or we passionately oppose becomes irrelevant when we begin to consider whether the government has the right to mandate vaccinations. This week I read multiple articles discussing the recent decision to end personal belief exemptions for vaccines in California. Both articles address the anti-vaxxer’s movement, those opposed to vaccinations, as well as the pro-vaccine movement, those in favor of vaccinations. Coming from a scientific background, I am a strong advocate of vaccines as I know they are effective in preventing detrimental diseases. However, regardless of your opinion on vaccines, the question becomes whether or not the government has the right to mandate vaccinations. As you will see, this seemingly individual decision poses great social conflicts and concerns. At the end of the day it is an individual’s decision, but it should be …show more content…
I believe they should if they intend to attend public schools, but not if parents are willing to homeschool. That being said, we are all part of an interconnected society and as such our decision to vaccinate or not vaccinate against an infectious disease has serious implications for all, whether we are part of the public school system or not. As a member of a society, it is our responsibility to do our due diligence to ensure that all of its members are safe and protected from infectious diseases. So before you make your decision, keep in mind the special populations such as infants, pregnant women and immunocompromised patients who cannot vaccinate because these are the populations that are going to be mostly effective if a serious infection, such as measles, becomes rampant in the