Texas school's vaccine reminder sparks heated exemption debate

A routine back-to-school immunization reminder exploded into a debate over vaccine exemptions —coming at the same time some longtime vaccine critics are publicly urging parents to protect children against measles .

Whitehouse ISD in East Texas recently reminded parents on Facebook that students attending public school must be up to date on required immunizations or have a valid exemption on file before returning to class.

The post quickly drew hundreds of reactions and comments, many from people arguing that Texas law allows parents to opt out of required school vaccinations through a conscientious exemption.

"Funded schools MUST allow immunization exemptions. Don't be fooled. You can get them online easily," one commenter wrote.

Another added, "Parents can supply school with a notarized copy of the exemption form."

A smaller number of commenters defended the district's reminder and criticized those opposing school vaccination requirements.

"This comment section explains why measles is making a comeback," one person said.

Chron reached out to Whitehouse ISD for comment but did not hear back in time for publication.

The online debate comes as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made one of his clearest public endorsements yet of the measles vaccine during an appearance Sunday on CNN's State of the Union .

"I will say it right now, that people—parents should get their children vaccinated for measles," Kennedy said. "A measles vaccine is effective. It stops measles in about 97 percent of the cases."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States has confirmed 2,371 measles cases this year, the highest annual total since 1991. Texas has reported 190 confirmed cases, according to the CDC's latest update .

Texas law, per the Department of State Health Services, requires students attending public schools to receive certain immunizations unless they qualify for a medical, religious, or conscientious exemption affidavit through the DSHS.

Lists | CNBC's states ranking sets off Texas lawmakers and GOP leaders Health | 9 Houston hospitals warned over federal price transparency violation Economy | Huge $3.2B shipyard picks Texas over California, creating 10,000 jobs World Cup | Houston World Cup performance draws praise worldwide

Indexed and credited by AIPROPX. Originating outlet: Houston Chronicle. Open at source →