Estonia may let teens decide on school vaccinations without parents' say

Estonia is planning to alter how school vaccinations are administered to young people. The Ministry of Social Affairs aims to give minors more influence over their own healthcare choices. Currently, parental consent is required before children can receive vaccines at school.

Under the new proposal, school nurses would evaluate whether a young person can make their own decision about vaccinations. If deemed capable, the vaccination would proceed unless a parent objects. Külli Reinsalu, chief nurse at the Tallinn Healthcare at School Foundation, believes nurses can use clear criteria to assess a student's decision-making ability.

School nurses have long advocated for this change. However, not everyone agrees. Aivar Haller, from the Estonian Parents' Association, argues that many young people may not be emotionally ready to make such choices. He also notes that Estonia has not had a public debate on vaccination since the coronavirus pandemic.

Parents are calling for a broader discussion before any changes take effect. Haller suggests that a national conversation should occur first, ensuring all concerns are heard.

The proposed law would shift responsibility from parents to young people in many cases. If passed, school nurses will play a bigger role in deciding who can consent to vaccinations. The government has yet to announce when the amendments will be finalised or debated publicly.