< Go Back Parental Split | COVID-19 Vaccinations Disputes The COVID-19 vaccine roll-out has been the light at the end of a very dark tunnel for most people worldwide. As the figure of vaccinated adults has risen and risen in the UK, many of us look to the brighter horizon ahead. Although the various vaccines being used in the UK have all been approved for use on adults by UK health authorities, trials are still ongoing to determine whether the vaccine will be suitable for children.
There is a near certainty that a vaccine will become available in the near future that is approved for children. This could significantly impact children with divorced parents who have a divided opinion on child vaccinations.
Family Disputes
Who then gets to cast the deciding vote on whether or not their child should be vaccinated? Assuming both parties have the best interest of their child's wellbeing at heart, coming to a decision about vaccinations could become a timely debate. The family dispute could eventually negatively impact the child's health as they are not protected from COVID-19 while parents debate the issue.
Vaccination has become a controversial, political subject in recent times. Such clashes are bound to lead to family conflicts that can be difficult to resolve. According toThe Children ActOf 1979, family law states that both parents are equally responsible for their children's wellbeing. This means that neither parent has a primary authority above the other when deciding what is best for their children.
With that said, how would you be able to determine the best course of action for your child? The vaccine has been backed up and approved by the relevant authorities, which should give parents peace of mind around the safety of vaccines. However, many parents will be concerned about potential side effects the vaccine might inflict. Both of these arguments are sure to play a part in the dispute. If an agreement cannot be met between parents, it will be passed over to the courts so that a judge can decide on the matter.
If no family agreement can be made, the court will sequentially decide based on the child's best interests. With the vaccine being approved by UK health authorities, providing there are no underlying health issues that might mitigate administering a vaccine exist, the court will likely favour the child being vaccinated. This will ultimately result in the child receiving the COVID-19 vaccine regardless of whether one parent is still against it.
Protecting Children Against COVID-19
Children only account for between 1-3% of all positively diagnosed COVID-19 cases. Most children who have been infected with COVID-19 have proven to be either asymptomatic or have mild symptoms that are not specific to respiratory systems.
There is, however, a minority of children who are more at risk of COVID-19. Children with underlying conditions such as asthma and other respiratory health issues are more likely to become dangerously ill. With this in mind, if your child is eligible for a future vaccine, vaccinating them is worth significant consideration.
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