Mandatory vaccination? Protestant experts say OK

Rome (NEV), 19 April 2018 – The Bioethics Commission of the Baptist, Methodist and Waldensian churches positively assessed the mandatory vaccination, a subject widely discussed in recent weeks in the Italian general debate. In a document addressed to the churches, the Commission explained how this is a scientifically and socially responsible practice.

The Baptist pastor Alessandro Spanu, member of the Commission, explained: “We believe that the free choice of the individual finds its limit when it affects or jeopardizes the right of another individual. We positively affirm that the decision to get vaccinated to protect ourselves and others from greater harm, responds to the commandment of love for the neighbor (Leviticus 19, 18, Mark 12, 31)”.

With a document entitled “Vaccination: a responsible and conscientious choice” the Bioethics Commission invites the churches to discuss the issue in a scientifically informed way. To this end, it suggests some assumptions for a discussion on science and faith; presents a juridical reflection on the subject; lists the European epidemiological data. And concludes: compulsory vaccination is positive!