This week, the HPV vaccine has been a topic of much debate between the Catholic Diocese and the Ministry of Health and Wellness. The church has reversed its position and does not want the vaccine administered at its schools.
Tonight the former Minister of Human Development and the Chairperson for the National Aids Commission, Dolores Balderamos-Garcia say the Catholic reversal is puzzling:
Dolores Balderamos-Garcia, Chairperson - NAC
"I think the issue seems to be a matter of whether you can administer the vaccine on school premises. Now, I understand this has been happening for years, so it's a little, it's a little bit puzzling that it would come forward, now, that you shouldn't use school premises. Now, different church leaders have given their opinions, but I think that the best thing to do is to talk between the parties and to see how a balance can be struck. Because once there is consent and informed consent of parents, etc., I think it is something that is good for Belize and good for the children. Because when you look at the science of the situation, it is compelling."
"It is absolutely compelling. I don't think anybody can be against that. Now, what I have heard some church leaders say is that they are not anti-vaxxers, but what they are saying is, well, not wanting it on a school premises is a little bit unfortunate because that is where children go to school. And I mean, to take each child to a clinic and in off hours would be extremely difficult for parents, you know. So, once you have informed consent of the parents, then I think it is a good thing. So, it's a little bit unfortunate what is transpiring or what is unfolding, but I think that the science of the situation and what is good for the children and what is good for preventing cancers, etc., is something that we should look at. So, like I say, I'm a little bit puzzled as to why they would be saying it's the venue that is a difficulty. Because to me, that is like sort of picking hairs. And there's no need to pick hairs here. There is a need to look at the science, to look at protection of our children and especially our women. And I think that is what is absolutely compelling. I think the Ministry of Health has really set out the situation in a comprehensive and compelling way and that is what I believe what should follow."
A statement today from the Ministry of Education says it, quote "remains committed to working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness in support of national public health initiatives, including school-based vaccination programmes."
