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Lowering the Age of Consent for Vaccination to Promote Pediatric Vaccination: It’s Worth a Shot

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 May 2024

Margaret Irwin ,
Derek R. Soled Open the ORCID record for Derek R. Soled [Opens in a new window]  and
Christy L. Cummings
Margaret Irwin
Affiliation:
BOSTON COMBINED RESIDENCY PROGRAM, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, USA.
Derek R. Soled
Affiliation:
HARVARD COMBINED INTERNAL MEDICINE/PEDIATRICS PROGRAM, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, USA.
Christy L. Cummings
Affiliation:
HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, USA.
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Abstract

This paper challenges historically preconceived notions surrounding a minor’s ability to make medical decisions, arguing that federal health law should be reformed to allow minors with capacity as young as age 12 to consent to their own Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC)-approved COVID-19 vaccinations. This proposal aligns with and expands upon current exceptions to limitations on adolescent decision-making. This analysis reviews the historic and current anti-vaccination sentiment, examines legal precedence and rationale, outlines supporting ethical arguments regarding adolescent decision-making, and offers rebuttals to anticipated ethical counterarguments.

Keywords

Covid-19Informed ConsentAutonomyVaccinationMedical Decision-MakingHealth Law
Type
Independent Articles
Information
Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics , Volume 52 , Issue 1 , Spring 2024 , pp. 52 - 61
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2024. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics

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