Please note that we are not trying to tell anyone to immunize their children or not. We are simply passing along useful information that we think may help some parents clarify misconceptions or any doubts that they have. We at Let’s Homeschool know that it is a parents right and responsibility to choose what is right for their children. The information here is to be used only to help you realize the source of articles that you read about immunizations, their risks and any other “rumors” that you hear or read.
The following information is from the Centers for Disease Control:
- Verify the source. Is the ownership of the information made clear? If you are reading on the Internet you can always try to click on “View” and then “Document Source” or “Document Information”.
- Scientific studies. Make sure that all reading that you do is based in actual scientific studies from reputable sources. If a fellow homeschooling parent just posts something that states that a certain percentage of children are negatively impacted by immunizations then you really need to be discerning. If someone states their source you may want to further your research to see if the research is being interpreted correctly.
- The CDC points out that good researchers will admit to the strengths of their findings as well as the weaknesses. You need to look at the whole picture and what the numbers mean.
- People who claim conspiracies or push “junk theory” should be left by the wayside. There is no place for this kind of sensationalism and you really need to be wise as to who is just building drama and scandal into something when it is unfounded.
- Sources that are generalized, such as “famous researchers” or “world renowned scientists”, should not be considered legitimate. If someone really does have findings and has done studies and medical research they should be confident enough and have enough pride in their work to display their name and their credentials. Make sure that you don’t have someone who is not an expert in the field of medicine giving you statistics or health advice about health matters such as immunizations.
- Try to be discerning between fact and fiction. Beware of sites that mix the two. You should gather your information from publications that are based on facts only.
- Consider the motivation of the writer of such articles. Are they trying to sell something or sign you up for something?
- Anything too awful or too wonderful should be weighed carefully.
- Scientifically sound articles on the Internet will often contain references from and to recognized peer-read publications.
- Information on vaccinations should be free. You should not pay for studies or research.
