In this article we examine
informed choice on immunisation for parents in New Zealand.
The government / health professionals' view of immunisation : The alternative view on immunisation : Informed choice on immunisation : Useful immunisation websites and articles
Informed choice is something we do every day. We all make health choices all the time - we take them for granted and we rarely stew over them:
- What should we eat?
- Should we join the gym?
- Will the headache go away if I rest, or should I take some paracetamol?
But how much more seriously we take it when making those decisions for another person; a very little person that we care about deeply!
Our midwives and childbirth educators may mention
immunisation during pregnancy - but who can think about that with the hurdle of the birth still ahead?
However, it soon becomes very real when asked for a decision about our child’s first routine immunisation at 6 weeks - and it can be like opening a can of worms…
There are some very strong feelings out there: people who passionately believe that parents should all have their children immunised and those who believe, equally passionately, in letting a natural immunity develop.
Well, when you get to decision time, there are two options you can choose from:
The Ministry of Health for New Zealand states that:
The Government’s commitment to immunisation is based on sound evidence. The national and international scientific consensus is that immunisation is one of the most cost effective means of preventing disease and improving health, and that risks associated with vaccines are rare.
Health professionals believe that whilst good housing, breastfeeding, a healthy diet and lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk of disease, it does not give you immunity against diseases. They advise that the best protection is to have your children immunised against these diseases.
By contrast, some parents want their child to develop natural immunity, rather than receive the recommended vaccination schedule.
These parents are supported in their views by some Natural Health Practitioners who take a holistic, natural approach to health and well-being.
In recognition of these views, the government maintains that all parents should have a choice and be able to make an informed decision about immunisation for their child. For this reason the immunisation programme is not compulsory.
A support group - the Immunisation Awareness Society (IAS) - exists in New Zealand to support parents who choose not to immunise their children. You can
click here to read about the IAS in our Support Group section, where you will find a description of what they do and how to get in contact with them.
At Kiwi Families we support you in your right to choose whichever option best suits you and your family. Take the time to do some research and discussion first, then make the decision with which you feel most comfortable.
As our website grows, we will present you with more detailed information on this contentious topic, in order to help you arrive at your decision.
To read more about immunisation, read our series of Kiwi Families articles:
Where do we go? gives you information on how to obtain immunisation for your child.
What to expect explains the procedure and how you can help your child.
www.moh.govt.nz/immunisation
For further advice on immunisation visit the official government website.
Alternatively, you can speak to your GP, Plunket nurse or practice nurse.
www.immune.org.nz
Website of the Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC), providing independent, factual information, including benefits and risks, based on international and New Zealand medical research.
www.ias.org.nz
If you wish to obtain further information on the Immunisation Awareness Society and their views on informed choice you can visit their site here.
Paula Skelton is a qualified nurse and midwife, a midwifery and childbirth educator, and the mum of three lovely girls. Read more about Paula in our Meet the Team section.
Article Informed Choice on Immunisation written by Paula Skelton.