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Question

 

Dear Gramps,

I just had a talk with a friend and she said the church has asked us to immunize our children, but I have heard a lot of information going around in the medical circles I’m in about a connection between early immunizations and autism. Of course, I thought, I would immunize my children if the Lord has asked us to, so I looked it up on lds.org. The article originally dated 1978 in the Ensign and a reminder came out in ’85. Given my age, I wouldn’t have seen this instruction without my friend mentioning something. Has the church’s stance changed? Or do we assume to immunize until there are further instructions? Thanks!

Michelle

 

Answer

 

Dear Michelle,

I am not aware of the Church’s releasing any further statements on vaccinations beyond the article you mention. With something as important as your children’s health, I believe that D&C 58:26 is an appropriate guideline:

For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.

That being said, in 2012 the Humanitarian Services of the Church added immunizations to their initiatives joining clean water, emergency response, food production, neonatal resuscitation training, vision care and wheelchairs. Since 2003 the Church has donated more than $16 million to the immunizations initiative. Between 2001 and 2010 measles deaths decreased globally by 74% and by 85% in Africa.  You can read about it here.

Vaccination has enormous benefits and has saved countless children from horrible diseases and disfigurements. On the other hand, some people have very grave concerns about potential side effects of specific vaccines. I believe you should do your research carefully, discuss the situation with your doctors, pray, and ultimately make the decision you believe to be best for your family.

 

Gramps

 

 

 

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