Two GOP prospects amend statements about vaccines

CAMBRIDGE, England -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said Monday parents should have some choice on whether to vaccinate their children, a position he's taken before but one that drew a new level of attention amid a U.S. measles outbreak and his recent moves toward running for president.

The political significance of Christie's remarks was amplified by his office a short time later, when it released a statement saying the governor believes "with a disease like measles there is no question kids should be vaccinated."

Christie's stumble into the vaccine issue came as a measles outbreak centered in California has sickened more than 100 people in several states and Mexico, putting a new spotlight on parents who choose not to vaccinate their children. Some do so for religious or philosophical reasons, while others cite a concern that vaccines can lead to autism and developmental disorders -- a link debunked by rigorous medical research.

Christie found an ally in fellow Republican White House prospect, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, who said in a Monday radio interview that most vaccines should be voluntary.

Advertisement

"I have heard of many tragic cases of walking, talking, normal children who wound up with profound mental disorders after vaccines," Paul, an eye doctor, said in a subsequent interview while suggesting vaccines were "a good thing." "But I think the parents should have some input. The state doesn't own your children."

His staff, too, sent out a clarifying statement afterward, saying that Paul "believes that vaccines have saved lives, and should be administered to children. His children were all vaccinated."

Christie, a Republican who recently launched an organization that allows him to raise money for a possible 2016 presidential campaign, is on a three-day trip to the United Kingdom. He was asked about the outbreak after touring a facility operated by MedImmune, which manufacturers the flu vaccine FluMist.

He said that he and his wife had vaccinated their children, describing that decision as "the best expression I can give you of my opinion." He said they believe doing so is an "important part of making sure we protect their health and the public health."

source