I am a student who thinks that mandatory vaccinations are a decent idea. Like any other community, American society has differing opinions on this issue. America has been a leader in the transmission rate of the coronavirus and its catastrophic effects due to its large population and close interaction. Therefore, one of the primary obligations of its citizens is to limit its spread, particularly through vaccination. The immunization issue is controversial as it involves the employment of a harmful virus. There is always a chance of negative side effects and unintended outcomes during such procedures despite their advantages. Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Indiana, and Arkansas passed state laws mandating vaccinations for schoolchildren in the 19th century (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia). Therefore, compulsory immunization is relevant in the abovementioned states, where the culture of voluntary vaccination has developed due to legislative restrictions. From my standpoint, vaccination must be mandatory in all areas of public life, even when considering its drawbacks, because the benefits of its usage outweigh any potential disadvantages.
It is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of vaccination to demonstrate its value objectively. Certain illnesses have almost completely been eliminated by vaccination, yet vaccine-preventable infections still exist, necessitating mandatory immunization. When a significant section of a population can fight severe diseases, the virus’s ability to transmit from individual to individual is constrained. This condition is known as community immunity, which stops prolonged illness in communities, shielding those vulnerable from the virus. Infectious disorders cost more healthcare expenses, hours away from employment to treat infected kids, and probable time-consuming incapacity than vaccines (Greyson et al.). However, vaccination requirements violate legally guaranteed religious liberties, and the state shouldn’t meddle with people’s individual healthcare choices. The best way to ensure vaccine-hesitant parents immunize their youngsters is not through restrictions. There are several reasons why vaccination should be mandatory, including the possibility of preventing the spread of various illnesses and the assurance that everyone in society would be protected.
People can organize demonstrations, boycotts, and scientific conferences to advance their views on vaccination. Communicating with top officials through written requests or emails is also acceptable for expressing ideas. American citizens can defend their beliefs by joining public organizations. World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics are the largest pro-vaccination organizations. The advantageous attitude of medical experts responsible for forming the policy of these recognized and trustworthy organizations strengthens the need for the introduction of mandatory vaccinations.
Works Cited
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Government Regulation. Author, 2014, Web.
Greyson, Devon, Chris Vriesema-Magnuson, and Julie A. Bettinger. “Impact of school vaccination mandates on pediatric vaccination coverage: a systematic review.” Canadian Medical Association Open Access Journal, vol. 7, no. 3, 2019, pp. 524-536. Web.