"We are fast approaching the stage of ultimate inversion: the stage where government is free to do anything it pleases, while the citizens may act only by permission; which is the stage of the darkest periods of human history, the stage of rule by brute force." - Ayn Rand

No person should be forced to do something against their will to include a medical procedure ever. The idea that schools, or any entity, require such of a person is a violation of that person's right to make decisions for themselves and against the Nuremburg Code. Studies are showing that this vaccine dwindles in efficacy within 6 months and the risks of the virus aren't what was thought originally. Risks in children are practically nil. As a society we have lost the ability to reason and not let emotions or fear control us. 

Some would argue that we have vaccine requirements for schools and this is no different. The fact of the matter, it is. This vaccine, while touted that it has been in development for several years, doesn't have the data to back efficacy nor was it studied on the "Novel Coronavirus" or Covid-19 and its variants to warrant putting it on the required list. That list also has opt-outs. This vaccine had opt-outs that have since been denied. Why? 

This mandate goes against the Nuremburg code and also forces doctors to go against the Hippocratic Oath. Doctors are sworn to protect their patients. With reports of bad side effects, to include death, stacking up against this vaccine, for a school to require it is endangering children and teachers alike. Schools are not the place to regulate ones medical choices nor ostracize one for their medical decisions. 

Additionally, this mandate is forcing segregation at its core. Several people don't have the option to take the vaccine due to health status causing even more discrimination against those people. Those students are often the ones that need a school environment. This mandate could take away the only option the student may have to learn in an environment where they thrive.

With studies showing that the immune system to be the best option against this virus, there is no need to mandate a vaccine. Death happens but we seem to have forgotten that as a society. This is no different. Yes, it was frightening at first to many but the unknown effects of the vaccine are far more frightening for just that: they are unknown. I am not against vaccines in general but this is neither a vaccine in the true sense of the word nor is there enough long-term data showing it is "safe and effective."  If it is as effective at protecting one from getting extreme symptoms and reducing hospitalization, that should be enough. It won't prevent transmission or contraction. Let those that want it get it but don't require it of everyone.

My entire family had it with no issues; we have all fought worse flus. We know we got it from people who had the vaccination. We both faired the same. (We had it, maybe, three days longer.) The studies show this virus isn't what it is projected to be. What I am more frightened of is the depression and the suicides rampant in children now which I have personally seen come across our fire dept. screen. The awkwardness in social environments brought on by lack of interaction. Society blaming Covid for cancelling events because we have become so accustomed to staying home. This proposal would just further that for those that choose not to get it for reasons that are none of the school's business.

I could go on, but, suffice it to say, schools have an obligation to teach, not regulate each teacher's or student's health. Schools have an obligation to build students and teachers up via education not cause segregation into "those who have and those who have not." These obligations are not contingent on a vaccine! I would say that the schools should cease to keep posting about "cases" as this only perpetuates the fear. Only those directly impacted need to know and even that is a point of discussion but for another time. 

As the petitioner put it, "the irrational minority should not be dictating the public health policy for VA or the schools." Maybe she could find an option that fits her position instead of making the actual majority fit hers.

Sincerely,

Crystal G