Massachusetts Citizens for Vaccination Choice

Is MCVC “anti-vaccine”?
No, we are proponents of unbiased vaccine information and the right of parents and individuals to make their own decisions regarding vaccination, regardless of what those decisions are and without coercion from others.

Must my newborn receive the hepatitis B vaccine in order to be released from the hospital?
No, absolutely not. But if hospital officials contend otherwise, request to see the state law that requires it (there is none, and this request will therefore likely quiet their demands).

What exemptions are available in Massachusetts?
Medical and religious exemptions are honored in the Commonwealth. Medical exemptions are granted by doctors on a vaccine-by-vaccine basis and reviewed annually. The religious exemption is extended to members of any tradition, even to those not following the orthodox teachings of their tradition. While some states offer philosophical exemption (Maine and Vermont being the two closest), Massachusetts does not.

Is there a standard form that I need to sign for the religious exemption?
No, not in Massachusetts. Parents need to write and send their own letters, perhaps with language to the effect, “I am exempting my child from vaccination because it conflicts with my sincerely held religious beliefs.” We recommend that you incorporate into your letter the full text of the state law that established the religious exemption (refer to our ‘Laws & Rights’ section for the text associated with your child’s level of schooling).

Do I need the signature of a clergy member when claiming a religious exemption?
No.  While some school districts suggest that you do, your letter and signature are sufficient.

Do I need my letter notarized? No, your signature is sufficient.

What can I do if a school official tells me something I don’t think is accurate?
When in doubt, ask them for the law that supports the request they’re making.

Now that I’ve started vaccination, am I required to continue?
You are always free to reevaluate, reconsider and, if you choose, discontinue the series, at least until a later date when you’ve had your questions answered adequately.

What if we had some vaccines given to our child already and have now changed our minds; can we still claim a religious exemption?
We humans are graced with the capacity to change our beliefs over time. So as long as you can in good conscience sign your name to a sentence such as, “I am exempting my child from vaccination because it conflicts with my sincerely held religious beliefs,” there is no reason why you can’t claim a religious exemption, now or in the future.

Do you know of an open-minded doctor who will respect my decisions regarding the vaccination of my child, whatever those decisions are?
Our MDs & Others page has some information that might be helpful in finding respectful doctors. Beyond that, we have gleaned some information particular to locales across the state through our work over the years and might be able to offer some suggestions by phone (781.646.4797) or . Please be sure to tell us what town you live in.

My doctor said that she won’t treat my baby unless he’s fully vaccinated. 1) Can she refuse to treat my child?  2) Am I legally required to have my child vaccinated?
Firstly, yes, we have heard of a number of doctors refusing to accept or keep children as patients because of the parents’ vaccination decisions (though we don’t know if such a refusal has ever been challenged in court). 
Secondly, vaccines are not required for babies, though some are currently recommended by the Department of Public Health. They become requirements only when children enter daycare or school, at which point medical and religious exemptions are honored if appropriate.
Beyond that, if your doctor refuses to treat your child, it might be time to find a new doctor (refer to the previous Q&A).

I think my child has had a reaction to a vaccine, but my doctor said it was nothing. What can I do?
Your doctor is required by law to report all adverse events that occur within 30 days after vaccination to federal health authorities. If your doctor refuses, or if you want to add your own report, you have the right to do so. Click here for further information on reporting adverse reactions. And to find a doctor who may be more open to your concerns and the whole health of your child, visit our MDs & Others page.