Religion in the Time of Measles: Prescriptions for Minimizing the Public Health Threats Associated with Religious Exemptions from Mandatory Vaccinations

Authors

Victor Diego Gonzalez

Abstract

The note examines the legal and public health tensions surrounding childhood vaccination mandates, emphasizing the balance between individual rights and societal interests. It argues that while states have the authority to compel vaccinations under their police powers, the proliferation of nonmedical exemptions, particularly philosophical ones, undermines herd immunity and public health. The analysis advocates for stricter criteria for religious exemptions and educational measures to address vaccine hesitancy, while cautioning against eliminating religious exemptions entirely to avoid public backlash.

Disciplines

Food and Drug Law | Health Law and Policy | Law | Legislation | Medical Jurisprudence

Recommended Citation

Victor D. Gonzalez, Religion in the Time of Measles: Prescriptions for Minimizing the Public Health Threats Associated with Religious Exemptions from Mandatory Vaccinations, 15 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 413 (2017).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol15/iss2/7