1. Public Health Risks
Lower Immunization Rates – Allowing broad exemptions, especially for philosophical reasons, can reduce vaccination rates, leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases (e.g., measles, whooping cough).
Herd Immunity Undermined – For diseases like measles, at least 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated to maintain herd immunity. If too many opt out, vulnerable individuals (e.g., infants, immuno-compromised people) are at higher risk.
2. Weakens Evidence-Based Health Policy
Exemptions based on philosophical or conscientious beliefs allow decisions to be made on opinion rather than science.
Medical policies should prioritize public health and scientific consensus over personal preference.
3. Potential for Abuse
The philosophical exemption is too broad and easy to exploit. Parents who simply dislike a requirement can claim an exemption without demonstrating legitimate concerns.
4. Protecting Children's Rights
Children rely on society to prioritize their well-being. Policies allowing broad exemptions can put children at risk due to parental beliefs.
Public health laws should protect everyone equally, not just those whose families choose to comply.