[How should physicians and nurses deal with people who do not
want immunizations?]
[Article in English, French]
Hinman AR.
ahinman@taskforce.org
People who do not want immunizations represent a small fraction of the total
population. However, they may have significant epidemiologic impact. Reasons for
lack of support for immunization include ignorance, fear, contraindication,
general opposition based on religion or philosophy, or "informed" opposition.
The category of "informed" opposition includes those who have decided, based on
reliable information, that the risks of immunization outweigh the benefits in
their particular case. It also includes "misinformed" opposition arising from
acceptance of unproven allegations about vaccine safety or efficacy. These views
may be fostered by media accounts of adverse events alleged to be caused by
vaccines. Carefully developed and forthright responses to these issues are
needed to assure that people make truly informed immunization decisions.
ALL INFORMATION, DATA, AND
MATERIAL CONTAINED, PRESENTED, OR PROVIDED HERE IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION
PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS REFLECTING THE KNOWLEDGE OR OPINIONS
OF THE PUBLISHER, AND IS NOT TO BE CONSTRUED OR INTENDED AS PROVIDING MEDICAL OR
LEGAL ADVICE. THE DECISION WHETHER OR NOT TO VACCINATE IS AN IMPORTANT AND
COMPLEX ISSUE AND SHOULD BE MADE BY YOU, AND YOU ALONE, IN CONSULTATION WITH
YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.