The ethics of compulsory vaccination in children

Abstract

The choice of whether to vaccinate a child is inevitably an ethical one. Parents are required to make decisions on behalf of their children, not only for the best interests of the child, but also to contribute to the overall health of the public, through herd immunity. However, some parents may choose not to vaccinate their children, often due to the fear of possibly harming their child. Thus, if required, governments have the responsibility to implement vaccine policies for the benefit of the general population, which may be coercive in nature. The first chapter of this dissertation includes the historical perspective of vaccines and the use of vaccination in Malta. This chapter will also include a brief description of the vaccination health policy in Malta. Moreover, this will be followed by a discussion about the complicated circumstances that surround the reasons why parents hesitate or refuse to vaccinate their children. These reasons include concerns and exemptions, which could be religious or medical in nature. Furthermore, the relationships between parents, their paediatrician and healthcare providers are explored. The provision of assistance and reassurance by health professionals is vital, as this will have a direct impact on the attitude of parents towards vaccinations. The final chapter will focus on court cases, reinforcing mandatory vaccination, autonomy, the best interests of the child, bio politics and the future of compulsory vaccination. There are a multitude of ethical factors that should be considered with childhood vaccinations. This dissertation will be examining the two main areas of potential conflict; the child's right to protection from diseases versus the parental right to decide on behalf of their children, and the rights of society to be protected versus the rights of the child or parents to personal autonomy.