Immunizing your baby is expected behavior and if you do not want to have your child immunized then you are looked upon as an unfit or uneducated parent. However, there are a lot of parents who have valid reasons not to want their child immunized. But, it is not easy to refuse immunization especially since many of the vaccines are required for your child to be admitted to school. So, what do you do? Can you refuse having your baby immunized?

The answer is that yes you can refuse to have your baby immunized. However, keep in mind that the doctors and nurses will really pressure you and probably make you feel like an idiot if you choose not to have your child immunized. There are religious forms that you will need to obtain in order for your child to forego boosters and the like to enter school. Not immunizing your child is a major hassle however if you feel strongly about it then you can definitely choose not to have the shots.

The best piece of advice is to educate yourself on your states laws regarding immunization so you will be prepared when the doctors, school board, and the rest of the world begins telling you that immunizations are mandatory and what a bad parent you are to consider otherwise. Knowing what the laws say and knowing your reasons why immunizations are not for your child will give you the ammunition to fight.

Keep in mind that you have the right to refuse immunizations for your child whether it is for religious reasons or philosophical ones. Some families choose to use a lawyer to fight any battles they have with school boards or daycares trying to force parents to immunize their children, but it is not necessary. Parents armed with the laws of the state can get out of the immunization requirements if they are determined to do so.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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