My exemption letter didn't work - can you help?

[spargel]

We have chosen not to vaccinate for Hep B because I believe that it would be dangerous for my daughter. My family has a strong genetic predisposition for multiple sclerosis. I developed it shortly after being vaccinated for Hep B, and since then, I've read some research that indicates that this particular vaccine may trigger MS in genetically susceptible people.

That being said, I typed up a moral exemption letter (appropriate to our state) and submitted it to our Child Development Center (military child care). I intend to use it for occasional hourly care only. Today, they handed me back my letter and said that it wasn't enough - that in accordance with army regulations I need to have either a signature from a doctor (or as I later found out - from a member of the clergy). They said that army regulations trump the state regulations.

Here's the problem - the doctor refused to sign the form when I first approached her, which is why I typed up the letter. I just joined a church (as in yesterday) so it's a little early to hit them up particularly when I can't think of a religious reason why she can't be vaccinated. Also - we're not really religious, so I'm feeling a bit hypocritical. Maybe I just need to get over that.

I'm going to try the doctor again - asking for just a notation that she's aware that we are not vaccinating and the reasons why, but I know already she will refuse again. She kind of smiled at me when she said that I wouldn't be able to get a religious exemption. I can't see another doctor unless I go outside the plan and pay for it on my own. I understand that most doctors won't sign off on selective vaccination - so we're still screwed. Maybe she'd sign off to say that we're just delaying the vaccination????

I haven 't had a chance to look up the army regulation yet and was too pissed off to ask when I left, because there were 4 women telling me that I needed a doctors note, even when I said she wouldn't provide it. 

Has anyone gone through this with the military CDC?

[34me]

I have not been through this myself but my first thought was, " Would your doctor sign it?"

[APToddlerMama]

Can a chiropractor sign it?  Personally, I would ask your clergy person to sign it and wouldn't care about being hypocritical.  You're just trying to protect your child.  Who can fault you for that? 

[ma2two]

I have no idea how military exemptions work.

But I wouldn't worry about asking your church for a signature.  I think churches are always thrilled to get new members these days, so I think they would be happy to help you out.

I don't think God would want you to give a vaccine that you think will hurt your child. Mothers' instincts are sacred.

[spargel]

Thanks for giving me some confidence. This is all so silly. They even told me that they don't care if she's vaccinated, they just need a signature in case they are inspected. I think I'll go back to the doc first and then on to the clergy. Failing that...we'll find a new church!

[LisaSedai]

This is from an old thread... don't know if it's applicable to your situation or not....

http://www.mothering.com/community/t/939134/military-child-care-exemptions

 Emmeline II
    offline

    8,345 Posts. Joined 2/2006

Quote:
Originally Posted by nhorzepa View Post
Is this for all the services?
And for all the regions?

My Army CDC has their own SOP that is requiring a letter from clergy.

Demand (nicely) the regulation that gives him that authority, because this regulation Army Regulation 40–562
BUMEDINST 6230.15A
AFJI 48–110
CG COMDTINST M6230.4F

http://www.vaccines.mil/documents/969r40_562.pdf
pg. 10, section 3.2, para 4 says:

Quote:
In addition, all other age appropriate ACIP–recommended vaccines for children are required unless there is documentation
of previous immunization, religious exemption, or medical contraindication.
and:

Quote:
http://www.dodea.edu/foia/iod/pdf/1005_1.pdf

If you go to page 70 section 18.2 it clearly states and outlines that military dependents have both medical and religious exemptions available to them.

18.2.1.3 Religious — A student’s parent/sponsor may claim exemption from the DoDEA immunization requirements for religious reasons. If the parent maintains the need to continue the religious exemption during a documented outbreak of a contagious disease, the student will be excluded from school for his/her protection and the safety of the other students until the contagious period is over. Religious exemptions require a written statement from the parent/sponsor stating that he/she objects to the vaccination based upon personal beliefs.

This document was written in Oct. of 2007 and is a DoDEA document so I don't know how they could deny the existance of exemptions.
There is no requirement for a "letter signed by the clergy" and they are discriminating against you based on your religious beliefs that are not on a government approved list of religions that are doctrinally opposed to vaccination.

If all else fails, contact your congressman.

[Samantha C1]

Talk to JAG... it's your child and you already have issues in the family (family HX that you KNOW of)  JAG might be able to help with constitutional rights... they can't force you to vax your kid but can be a-holes.  We are at Drum and a daycare was shut down cause a few kids got some weird virus or something.  I know all of those kids were vaxed.  you shouldn't have to prove yourself to anyone. MOTHER know's her child best!!!  stick up foe what you believe in.  I am going to go thru the same crap and I will make a mess of people who get in my way with MY child.  DON'T MESS WITH MOMMA BEAR!  =)   GOOD LUCK!