By Pat Bradley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-1003297.mp3
Montpelier, VT – Vermont is one of twenty states that allows a parent to opt out of having their child vaccinated if they do not agree with the idea for any reason. Senate Bill 199 would remove that philosophical exemption. The Vermont Medical Society Executive Vice President Paul Harrington says they support universal vaccination and removal of the exemption.
But supporters of the philosophical exemption say vaccines don't necessarily keep diseases at bay. Chiropractor Dr. Curtis Gross is opposed to removing the exemption.
Pediatrician Dr. Louis diNicola is President of the Vermont Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. In his 36 years of practice in Randolph, he says he has never seen any documented severe adverse reactions from immunizations.
Burlington, Vermont resident Jenna Thayer has had her children vaccinated, but says parents must have the right to make the decision if and when to immunize their children in consultation with their doctors, not based on a mandate from government.
Thayer says the committee members taking testimony appeared "dismissive" to those seeking to keep the exemption. She says it must be kept.
The bill is currently in the Senate Committee on Health and Welfare.