In a surprising turn of events, a Texas mother named Laura Jenkins found herself facing scrutiny from Child Protective Services (CPS) after hosting “pox parties” — gatherings aimed at deliberately infecting unvaccinated children with chickenpox. Laura, who opts out of vaccinations for her children due to her belief in “natural immunity,” also runs a Facebook group where she connects with about 300 other parents sharing her views.
To Laura’s astonishment, she doesn’t understand the backlash surrounding her events. After being reported by a pro-vaccination group from abroad, she expressed her frustration to local media, asserting that chickenpox parties are harmless. “Children need to get sick to build their immunity,” she claimed, arguing that this generation has been misled into thinking that illness is inherently negative. It’s bewildering to think that she equates chickenpox with a rite of passage, especially considering the historical context of diseases like the Spanish flu, which was anything but a trivial matter.
Despite her confidence, legal expert Mark Thompson warned that chickenpox parties can lead to serious consequences. “If a child contracts chickenpox and suffers severe complications or even dies, parents can face legal repercussions,” he explained. Many people might assume that chickenpox is harmless due to its commonality, but the reality is stark. According to research published in the New England Journal of Medicine, prior to the vaccine’s introduction, chickenpox was responsible for 30,000 hospitalizations and 150 fatalities annually. Moreover, complications can arise, including shingles and the risk of spreading the virus to vulnerable populations like newborns and the immunocompromised.
While CPS has yet to comment on the specifics of their investigation into Laura’s activities, she described feeling persecuted. “I feel bullied and victimized,” she told reporters. “My parental rights should be honored. I haven’t broken any laws, and my kids are well cared for.” However, the decision not to vaccinate her children doesn’t eliminate the risks associated with exposing them to preventable diseases.
In 2015, it is concerning that a parent would casually organize gatherings for contagious diseases. The motivation behind vaccinations isn’t a result of societal pressure but rather a commitment to health backed by scientific evidence and a genuine concern for children’s well-being.
If anyone is feeling victimized in this scenario, it’s the children who might be compelled to face preventable illnesses because of their parents’ choices, which seem rooted more in misinformation than in facts. For those interested in exploring more about family planning and insemination, resources like Resolve.org can provide valuable information, and for additional insights on fertility supplements, check out Make A Mom.
In summary, while some parents may believe in the idea of natural immunity, the risks associated with chickenpox parties are significant and could lead to dire consequences. The health and safety of children should always come first, and informed decisions backed by science are crucial.