While most parents recognize the importance of vaccinating their children against harmful viruses and infections, there are some parents who believe that vaccinations aren’t necessary. Arkansas is one of 19 states that allow medical, religious, and philosophical vaccination exemptions for children entering the public school system.
Immunization shots help prevent the outbreak of potentially lethal viruses and diseases. All 50 states in the U.S. require children attending public schools to vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, and rubella, yet some parents choose to opt out of vaccinating their children through an exemption. Not only does this put the unvaccinated child at risk, but it has the potential to put others at risk as well.
Vaccinations are safe, but they don’t provide a 100% guarantee of immunity. While most individuals who receive a vaccination develop an immunity, there is a slight chance that the vaccine won’t lead to immunity. The more people who are susceptible to a virus or a disease, the more likely it is that an outbreak will occur.
Not only are vaccinations entirely safe, but vaccinations are extremely important. They help protect communities by preventing dangerous diseases. By refusing vaccination, you are increasing the risk of exposure to harmful diseases. Public school or no, you should be sure to bring your kids in for immunization shots.
But children aren’t the only ones who need to be vaccinated. It’s important for adults to receive immunization shots as well. College students who are about to enter dorms should be caught up on immunizations, and women who are pregnant should receive vaccinations to protect newborns from diseases. Annual flu vaccinations can help decrease the likelihood of flu outbreaks in your home, office, or community.
For more information on the importance of vaccinations visit the the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, or visit healthfinder.gov.