Vaccinations: Know Your Options

At the end of 2020, the Covid vaccine was released and began to be administered in the US. Currently, approximately 12% of the US population has been vaccinated a little over 1% globally. While there are some awaiting their opportunity to get the vaccine, many others are hoping that it does not become mandatory (and for good reason). It helps to know your options and rights regarding vaccinating. Below are some resources and information we’ve compiled if you’ve decided against vaccines in general, including the Covid vaccine.

There are many viable reasons available against vaccinating. One of the first prominent voices against this practice, Dr. Harris Coulter, Ph.D, made this statement:

“A large portion of the millions of U.S. children and adults suffering from autism, seizures, mental retardation, hyperactivity, dyslexia, and other branches of the hydra-headed entity called ‘development disabilities’ owe their disorders to one of the vaccines against childhood diseases.”

There is a lot of back and forth about if the decision to vaccinate should be left in the hands of the individual or mandated by state governments. This has been the cause of a lot of tension between schools and parents, workplaces and their employees, the religious and non-religious, and political parties. Those for universal vaccination state that it is a necessary public health safeguard, and should therefore be a non-negotiable requirement. Those opposed believe that vaccines themselves are the health risk and contribute to many health challenges [like autism] that we face today.

With many employers wanting mandatory vaccine protocols on the heels of the current pandemic, the discussion being held by parents and workers alike is whether are not this can be required under the current laws. Here is some helpful info:

EXEMPTION

Two types of exemptions exist:

1. Medical exemption: This applies to those at risk for an adverse reaction because of an allergy to one of the vaccine components or a, existing medical condition
2. Religious exemptions: Depending on your religious affiliation, you can be accommodated for an exemption.

The National Conference of State Legislatures has an up-to-date list of states with religious and philosophical exemptions to vaccines. It’s imperative that you’re familiar with the laws that impact your ability to say ‘no’ to vaccines. This is especially true since every state has vaccination requirements for students. Many parents that are against vaccinations feel they have no choice in the matter, and must choose between their child’s education or health. Take a look at this list to see what laws exist in your state so you can make a more informed decision. (It isn’t unheard of for people to relocate in the name of their health.).

In regards to Covid-19, the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission provides information about your rights as an employee and vaccines. As businesses begin to open, it is good to become aware of any changes to your employer’s vaccination laws. Some states leave it up to individual businesses to decide whether or not they will require this vaccine. If your employer’s requirements change in direct opposition to your own values regarding health, it is better to have an understanding of employee rights before approaching your employer or making exemption requests.

DON'T STOP LEARNING

There is a growing library of literature available regarding the health risks and side-effects of vaccines. It is highly suggested to stay informed on the matter, as well as on holistic ways to prevent infectious diseases while supporting the immune system. Here at HOI, we continue to stay abreast on research for and against vaccinations, while also continually learning about herbs and homeopathic routes to helping the human body stave off disease. As we share what we’ve learned, we also recommend diving deep into your own research.

KNOW THAT YOU HAVE A CHOICE

When it comes to your health, you always have a choice. The decision to vaccinate is an individual one since it directly affects your health. Our wish is for our community to know the risks and detrimental properties of vaccinating. This is a topic that can be covered in several articles (we plan to bring to you over the course of the next few weeks). However, the first step is knowing your options, no matter what you decide.