Abstract

SANTOS, Paulo  and  HESPANHOL, Alberto. An ethical view of vaccine refusal. Rev Port Med Geral Fam [online]. 2013, vol.29, n.5, pp.328-333. ISSN 2182-5173.

Vaccination is one of the most important victories of modern medical science. It has prevented more cases of disease and premature death than any other medical treatment. But this success may decrease the motivation to continue with vaccination, resulting in the appearance of arguments against vaccination from groups with high media impact. This may endanger the outcomes achieved. In this article, we review ethical aspects of poor adherence and vaccine refusal as expressions of patient autonomy and liberty. We reflect on the role of health professionals and institutions in addressing this question. We conclude that an episode of vaccine refusal involves much more than the formal procedures undertaken to justify the responsibility of those making the decision. It is an opportunity for health education that may empower individuals and populations with better health literacy to allow truly free and informed decision-making.

Keywords : Medical Ethics; Vaccination; Patient Compliance; Informed Consent; Treatment Refusal.

        · abstract in Portuguese     · text in Portuguese     · Portuguese ( pdf )