Texas' HPV vaccination mandate: upon further reflection . . . .

The Saturday Times printed some interesting reactions to that paper's editorial support for the executive order by Texas Gov. Rick ("The Haircut") Perry that requires girls to receive HPV vaccinations before they would be allowed to enter sixth grade:

• Although you note the “opt out” approach taken by Gov. Rick Perry of Texas in which vaccination is required but parents can seek an exemption for reasons of conscience or religious beliefs, recommending the vaccine rather than requiring it could prove to be just as effective without violating the parents’ right to decide affirmatively — at least until the long-term effects are known. Amanda Styron
• Schools may rightfully require that children undergo immunizations that will protect schoolwide populations from acquiring communicable diseases, but cervical cancer does not fall into this category. However benevolent the intent, this is not a matter for Big Brother. Alan Katz
• In Texas, underscreening in African-American and Hispanic women probably accounts for their disproportionately high rates of cervical cancer. These adult women need access and coverage for screening. Unfortunately, there is no lobby for the Pap smear. Deborah Kamali, M.D.
• Compulsory vaccination has a legitimate place in our health care system. But why should the government restrict its vaccinations to the victims? Why not include the carriers? Sue Abercrombie
• Texas will pay hundreds of dollars per girl for the vaccination. Why not spend the money on health care, education about teenagers’ bodies and rights, enriching music, dance, art and science programs that engage, increase confidence and provide an alternative to sexual activity? What kind of people supply schoolgirls to a pharmaceutical company, allowing it to earn millions a year on such mandates? Elizabeth Beiter