Too Soon To Mandate Vaccine

[mhatrw]

http://www.cleveland.com/politics/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/opinion/1173519919150840.xml&coll=2

... A measure introduced in the Ohio House late last month would require girls entering the sixth grade to receive the HPV vaccination. The stated goal is to vaccinate young girls against HPV before they become sexually active.

This bill should launch an informed and useful discussion among Ohio lawmakers, medical professionals and social ethicists. Cervical cancer is a horrible, preventable disease. What this bill should not launch is a stampede.

Although plenty is known about the misery caused by cervical cancer, not enough is known about the long-term effects of the new vaccine. To mandate an HPV vaccination before more data on its safety and effectiveness can be collected and studied would represent rash public policy. The expense of the vaccination ($360), which comes in a series of three shots, is also a concern for many critics.

Now, families have an option that may reduce a daughter's risk of cervical cancer. The state should leave the decision up to them.

[AX10]

1. K & R!

:hi: mhatrw!