by GOPMOM

Created on: March 01, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

I truly thought this debate would go away before I could weigh in with my opinion, but once again, corporate greed and political kickbacks have taken precedence over common sense.

You've heard about the policy instituted by the Governor of Texas, making it mandatory for girls entering the sixth grade to be vaccinated against a type of herpes that can cause cervical cancer. Well, that doesn't sound so offensive, does it? But remember, no good deed goes unpunished. (Although, there is plenty of evidence to indicate this is not a good deed, but simply a marketing ploy created by the vaccine-maker to sell their product and make a ton of money.)

The policy will allow for opt-outs, which makes sense. After all, there are many people out there who would rather contract tuberculosis than get vaccinated. (My eight year old is one of them. That is why she isn't given a choice.) But I am truly on the fence for the first time in a long time on this one. Is it really offensive that a state make mandatory this vaccine? Many vaccines are mandatory in order to enroll in Kindergarten, but parents are usually allowed to opt-out. Or is it offensive because this vaccine has to do with sex?

I'm sure many of you who regularly read my posts will find it surprising that I'm not up in arms over this. After all, I supposedly come off as some ultra-conservative, religious right, Bush-worshipping, gun-toting, SUV-driving Republican activist. (One of those is definitely accurate I love my JEEP!) But I see the Governor's point. If this vaccine saves just a dozen girls from getting this potentially life-threatening disease, go for it.

I see the oppositions' point, too. Yes, sixth grade might be a bit too young for some parents to start thinking about their little girls having sex and contracting a deadly disease. But whether we like it or not, it happens. The problem with this argument, as I see it, is that the parents assume they must explain to their children what the vaccine is and why they are getting it.

I know we are at a place in society where we value children's rights over all common sense. But, come on. If you want your child vaccinated against a disease, just do it. You don't have to tell them anything. You can lie to them, if you like. Shocking, I know. But we are their parents. Use your parental right and just give them the shot. Just tell them it cures hiccups.

An interesting concept, I know. But admit it, you lie to your kids all the time. I know I do. Mostly, I lie to get her

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