Mandatory immunization

Dear Atty. Chris,

I am about give birth in a few weeks. My sister told me that there is a law requiring mandatory immunization for babies. Is this true? Can you explain this to me?

Thank you!

Ces

***

Dear Ces,

The Mandatory Infants and Children Health Immunization Act of 2011 is a law that provides for the mandatory basic immunization for all infants and children.

RA 10152 requires that mandatory basic immunization shall be given for free at any government hospital or health center to infants and children up to five years of age. (Sec. 3) This law also specifies the diseases that are covered with the mandatory basic immunization, to wit:

"SEC. 3. Coverage. — The mandatory basic immunization for all infants and children provided under this Act shall cover the following vaccine-preventable diseases:

(a) Tuberculosis;

(b) Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis;

(c) Poliomyelitis;

(d) Measles;                                                                                                                  

(e) Mumps;

(f) Rubella or German measles;

(g) Hepatitis-B;

(h) H. Influenza type B (HIB); and

(i) Such other types as may be determined by the Secretary of Health in a department circular.

It is also important to note that this law obligates any physician, nurse, midwife, nursing aide or skilled birth attendant who delivers or assists in the delivery of a newborn prior to delivery to inform parents or legal guardian of the newborn of the availability, nature and benefits of immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases at birth. (Sec. 5, Id.) This provision ensures that every parent shall be informed of his/her right to access the mandatory basic immunization for his/her babies.

Considering the legal mandate for medical practitioners involved in pre-natal care to educate all pregnant mothers about the benefits of the mandatory basic immunization for infants and children, do not hesitate to contact and consult them through your local health centers for further professional medical advice.

Hope this helps.

Atty. Chris Liquigan