Lowering the Age of Consent: Pushing Back Against the Anti-Vaccine Movement

Abstract

This Article examines how the law, despite legislative intent, has accomodated the anti-vaccination movement. It elaborates on the harms resulting from the law's deference to vaccine opposition, situating the Human Papillomavirus Virus (HPV) vaccine within the broader anti-vaccine movement and discussing how the opposition has influenced vaccine acceptance and uptake. Ultimately, the Article urges an alternative legislative approach through lowering the age of consent for the HPV and similar vaccines.

Note:
Funding Information: None to declare.

Conflict of Interests: None to declare.

Keywords: Vaccines, Anti-Vaccine Movement, adolescent rights, parental rights, medical ethics, autonomy, public health