Florida Lifts Mandates on Select Vaccines in Schools
An announcement from Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo could reshape how public health is managed in this state. Last week, he announced plans to end vaccine mandates in Florida.
Central Florida Public Media reached out to the state health department for clarification on their latest guidance and which vaccines are included or excluded, particularly any changes affecting school or childcare immunization requirements. In their response, the department said that no rules have officially changed yet, but the state has started the process of removing four vaccines from the list of those mandated for children to get into school. Those vaccines are hepatitis B, Hib, pneumococcal, and chickenpox. The department says the focus is on medical freedom, and this update does not limit access to vaccines. All other vaccines required for entry into school in Florida remain in place including polio, mumps, and measles, unless that’s changed by the state legislature. The Florida Department of Health says parents are encouraged to consult with their health care providers when making decisions for their children…