What is 'forced vaccination'?
From the article:
'When I discuss forced vaccination in this article, I mean requiring proof of vaccination for entry to settings such as hospitals, care homes, schools or concert venues. For some people, depending on their circumstances, this still amounts to compulsion. I would say that in normal times your vaccination choice is your own, but perhaps during a pandemic this kind of compulsion can be justified.'
This is a narrow and unhelpful definition. However, it is a lead in to an expanded, moral discussion on choice.
This kind of compulsion to show 'proof of vaccination' did not apply everywhere.
For example, in the UK, once covid tests were available - you simply had to show a negative result to visit someone in a care home.
The author compares vaccination in 'normal' times to a 'pandemic'. Personal choice being available/acceptable, usually?
Normal times in certain countries includes outbreaks of dangerous diseases, epidemics. Whether or not vaccinations are available or chosen depends on a variety of factors. This involves a different kind of freedom or obstacles to health.
Sometimes, the freedom of choice is limited by resources, politics, ignorance or fear. I think it is a pity when e.g. the issue of mask-wearing becomes politicised and weaponised. So clearly seen in the US and then, the UK.
Information and guidance is about the prevention of spread of disease and death. Prevention and promotion of health not always a high priority in countries who seek to gain profit from the ill health and misfortune of others. The NHS in the UK has been held up in the past as a good example of universal, personalised care. Things change.
Here is the UK Vaccination Policy:
https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/re ... /cbp-9076/
The UK’s current routine immunisation schedule provides protection against 14 infections, including measles, meningococcal disease and polio. Most vaccinations are given during childhood but some are aimed at adults, such as vaccination against shingles, where those aged 70-79 years are eligible in the UK.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), and its devolved nation counterparts, have adopted recommendations made by the World Health Organization (WHO) that at least 95% of children should be immunised against vaccine-preventable diseases.
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As much as the article provides a fascinating look at 3 ethical systems, it should be clear that what is important are the implications and effects of knowledge or ignorance on individual and collective health. How to be well. Live safely.
The practical view.
From
https://msf.org.uk/issues/vaccines:
'According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines prevent 3.5 to 5 million deaths every year from diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles.
Vaccines are particularly vital in regions with limited access to medical care. They help prevent epidemics and reduce the burden on fragile health systems.
The COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted health services in many areas. Vaccine production and delivery were affected, and millions of children missed routine vaccinations. Since 2020, this has created alarming immunity gaps, especially in vulnerable communities.'
Back to philosophy and ethical issues. Not always easy when even the medics and scientists disagree on the best policy or guidance. When a scary and new pandemic comes along, people do their best to survive. Decisions are taken on best knowledge and experience available.
Important health issues and prevention should not be developed according to the false beliefs of powerful, ignorant politicians with vested interests in self and power.
