Dialogue - Should the Government Mandate Vaccinations?

Vaccines work. Over the past decades, vaccines have nearly wiped out smallpox, polio, measles and many other diseases. In recent years, the number of people foregoing vaccinations has led to the resurgence of diseases thought to be eliminated. Fueled by some who mistrust science, fears of side effects and religious objections, more and more people are fighting vaccination requirements to get a job or attend school. Business and government-based vaccine mandates have come under fire.

In this edition of Dialogue, we discuss the government’s role in protecting public health and issues around forced school and employer vaccinations. The discussion featured Dr. William Cotton, a local pediatrician and representative of the American Academy of Pediatrics and State Rep. Don Manning who supports a bill requiring schools to inform parents how they can refuse vaccinations for their children. Ann Fisher, the host of All Sides with Ann Fisher on 89.7 NPR News, moderated the event.

The Ohio State University,John Glenn College of Public Affairs,Public Policy,