Moriarty: Boost public health end religious vax exemptions

Published: Friday, June 6, 2025 at 7:18 am

**Massachusetts Doctor Urges Action on Vaccine Exemptions Amidst Disease Outbreaks**

A Massachusetts physician is calling for the elimination of religious exemptions for childhood vaccines in the state, citing rising cases of vaccine-preventable diseases. Dr. Richard Moriarty, a member of the MA Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and an advocate with MA Families for Vaccines, highlights the urgency of the situation, pointing to outbreaks of pertussis (whooping cough) and measles.

According to Dr. Moriarty, over 8,500 cases of pertussis, resulting in three pediatric deaths, have been reported in 2025. Measles, a disease previously declared eliminated, has sickened over 1,080 patients and caused three deaths this year. He emphasizes that the majority of measles cases have occurred in individuals who are not vaccinated.

Dr. Moriarty attributes the growing threat to community immunity to the misuse of religious exemptions in schools. He notes that some individuals are allegedly claiming religious exemptions because personal belief exemptions are not permitted in Massachusetts, while others are allegedly doing so because they were unable to obtain a valid medical exemption.

Two bills currently under consideration on Beacon Hill, S.1557/H.2554, aim to remove the non-medical exemption from routine childhood vaccines in Massachusetts schools. Sponsored by Senator Edward J. Kennedy and Representative Andres Vargas, these bills would eliminate the religious exemption and strengthen school vaccine reporting requirements. Dr. Moriarty argues that accurate data is crucial for public health officials to identify and address communities at risk of outbreaks.

Dr. Moriarty stresses that religious exemptions are not supported by major faith groups. He points out that vaccination is endorsed by top Jewish and Islamic scholars, the Vatican, and major Christian sects. He emphasizes that these bills do not mandate immunization but aim to strengthen community immunity based on scientific research and protect vulnerable populations. He also notes that eliminating religious exemptions will ensure a safe learning environment for all children, reduce missed school and work days, and prevent healthcare costs associated with disease outbreaks.

Several states, including Connecticut and New York, have already eliminated their religious exemptions. Dr. Moriarty urges Massachusetts lawmakers to support S.1557/H.2554, stating that lives depend on it.

BNN's Perspective:

While the concerns raised by Dr. Moriarty regarding public health are valid, it's crucial to balance the need for community immunity with the rights of individuals to practice their religious beliefs. Finding a solution that respects both public health and religious freedom is paramount. The proposed legislation should be carefully considered, taking into account the potential impact on various communities and ensuring that any changes are implemented fairly and transparently.

Keywords:

vaccines, religious exemptions, measles, pertussis, public health, Massachusetts, school vaccines, community immunity, outbreaks, S.1557, H.2554, immunization, vaccine preventable diseases, Dr. Richard Moriarty, MA Families for Vaccines, American Academy of Pediatrics

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