Florida’s Health Secretary, Joseph Ladapo, announced intentions to end all vaccine mandates under state law. However, the Florida Department of Health later clarified that existing vaccine requirements for diseases such as polio, diphtheria, measles, whooping cough, mumps, and tetanus remain in effect unless altered by legislation. The department also confirmed that all vaccines will continue to be accessible to families throughout the state.
The proposed policy shift has faced reluctance from Florida’s Republican-dominated legislature and generated significant criticism from medical experts and political opponents. Statements from former President Trump equated mandates to “slavery” while also advising people to “take it.” A Democratic state representative described the potential changes as “a public health disaster in the making.” An infectious diseases expert and former Florida surgeon general suggested the health secretary’s position appeared to be receding, noting strong public support for childhood vaccinations and warning of potential health consequences should existing requirements be removed for conditions like chickenpox, hepatitis, and strep. The health secretary has also been noted for discrediting vaccines.
Source: www.theguardian.com