Many people are against vaccination for many reasons, most of which are personal and not in any way backed up by scientific study, but there is no escaping the fact that vaccines save lives.
Fortunately, there are governments that recognize this, and make sure that the children in their country are being vaccinated. France is one of them.
Now, according to Sydney Morning Herald, two parents are receiving a suspended jail time for not vaccinating their children.
Couple Marc and Samia Larere’s refusal to vaccine their three-year-old and a 15-month-old came to light when they failed to show proof of their children’s vaccination as they were enrolling their eldest child in day care.
In France, this proof is a requirement before a child can be admitted into a daycare, a school, or participate in any sports programs. Shots for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are not required, but shots for diphtheria, tetanus, and polio are.
“They were initially charged with neglecting their children’s health, an offence that carries a maximum of two years in prison and a $46,000 fine,” the report said. “The couple argued they refused to use the combined polio, tetanus and diphtheria vaccine because it contained a ‘toxic product.’”
Eventually the charge was downgraded to “refusing to undergo mandatory vaccination,” which carries a maximum of six months’ imprisonment and a $5800 fine.
Talking to The Guardian, the Lareres said that vaccines does more harm than good.
“There are serious studies carried out today that prove that vaccines can make our children ill more than protect them,” said Samia Larere. “There are additives, like mercury and aluminium, which are dangerous.”
Despite the many and continued fear-mongering by those who insist that vaccination is bad, many studies still claim that vaccines are the best way to ensure a child’s continued health.
Meanwhile, French health minister Marisol Touraine said of this case: “Freedom stops where public health begins.”
READ: Studies reveal anti-vaccine parents contribute to measles and pertussis outbreaks
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