NYS Doctors Group Calls to Strike Law Allowing for Religious Exemptions for Measles Vaccination

The Medical Society of the State of New York has joined with 25 medical and public health organizations, and patient advocacy groups asking in their New York State legislators to authorize only medical exemptions from vaccination.

“Once declared eliminated in the United States by the CDC, measles are now making a comeback,” the group said in a statement. “We must do everything that we can to prevent measles from gaining a permanent foothold in New York and prevent the further spread of disease nationally.”

An important first step, the statement continued, is ensuring that medical exemptions are the only exemption allowable. “We must preserve community immunity in order to protect society—especially our most vulnerable, the newborn, pregnant women, the immune-compromised, and those with cancer.”

Founded in 1807, the Medical Society of the State of New York is the state’s principal non-profit professional organization for physicians, residents and medical students of all specialties. Its mission is to represent the interests of patients and physicians to assure quality healthcare services for all.

No fewer than 23 states have reported measles cases this year. New York State leads the way with 41 new reported cases in New York City and 11 in nearby Rockland County just last week. Most were unvaccinated people in Orthodox Jewish communities.

“The highly contagious yet preventable disease was considered eradicated roughly two decades ago. However, a burgeoning “anti-vaxxer” movement has gained steam as more parents refuse to vaccinate their children based on the unfounded theory that vaccines cause autism,” the Daily News reported. “Current New York law allows schools to grant religious exemptions to getting vaccines. A “written and signed statement from the parent or guardian saying they object because of sincere and genuine religious beliefs” is permitted under state law.”

Officials at the CDC are working around the clock to get the word out to parents. “Measles is a highly contagious disease. It can be serious for young children. Protect your child by making sure he or she is up to date on measles vaccine, including before traveling abroad.”

The organization adds, “You can protect your child against measles with a combination vaccine that provides protection against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). The MMR vaccine is proven to be very safe and effective. CDC recommends that children get one dose at each of the following ages: 12 through 15 months and 4 through 6 years.”