Florida abolishes mandatory vaccination for school-going children - Florida Scraps Compulsory Immunization for School Kids
The US health authority, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recently published new numbers indicating a decline in vaccination rates amidst an increasing measles outbreak. This trend, according to officials, is a cause for concern, particularly as the number of confirmed measles cases in the US has reached a level not seen since the disease was declared eliminated in the country in 2000.
Amidst this backdrop, the CDC's new numbers were released in the face of growing resistance to vaccine mandates in some US states. For instance, Florida, led by Governor Ron DeSantis, has announced its intention to abolish vaccine mandates, including for school attendance. This decision contrasts with the resistance observed in other states.
The controversial changes initiated by US Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have led to a response from certain US states aimed at maintaining a focus on evidence-based vaccine policy. In response, the health authorities of California, Oregon, and Washington have formed the "West Coast Health Alliance" to issue joint vaccine recommendations that align with national medical associations, even if they deviate from federal guidelines.
The "West Coast Health Alliance" aims to maintain a focus on science, data, and facts in vaccine policy, contrasting with the approach taken by US Health Minister Kennedy Jr. Erica Pan, head of the California health authority, stated that the dismantling of public health and the abandonment of science, data, and facts endanger lives.
Last week, the head of the CDC, Susan Monarez, was dismissed after less than a month in office, leading to further resignations in the agency's leadership. The name of her successor has not been identified in the available search results.
Joseph Ladapo, the head of the Florida health authority, has been vocal about his stance on mandates, stating that all mandates are wrong and dripping with contempt and slavery. His actions have caused divisions not only in Florida but also at the national level.
The formation of the "West Coast Health Alliance" signifies a significant shift in vaccine policy and public health approach in certain US states. As the debate on vaccine policy continues, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the ongoing measles outbreak and vaccination rates for other diseases like diphtheria and polio.
According to official data, vaccination rates for these diseases among kindergarten children in the US are declining compared to the previous year for the 2024/25 school year. This decline could potentially lead to a resurgence of these diseases. Vaccine mandates for attending public schools exist in all US states, with varying exemptions.
In conclusion, the current state of vaccine policy in the US is marked by controversy and division. The formation of the "West Coast Health Alliance" represents a significant move towards evidence-based vaccine policy, aiming to counter the far-reaching changes initiated by US Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The impact of these changes on public health remains to be seen.
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