Forcing people to be immunized with a vaccine that is, at times, less than 50% effective is an attempt to appear concerned for the public's well being without expending much effort (AJN eNews, December [subscribe to this free newsletter at http://www.ajnonline.com]). Even vaccines that have been proven to be effective can have frightening adverse effects. Mandating that everyone receive one doesn't take into account an individual's needs.

My daughter experienced status epilepticus for more than three hours after receiving the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Will I subject her to an MMR booster? Absolutely not. I'll have titers drawn to check her immunity, and I won't simply accept a medication because someone who isn't my doctor (or my daughter's) says it's a good idea.

Lucy Jones, RN, CNRN

Austin, TX