The return of diseases that were previously eradicated is an emerging public health emergency.

Minnesota is currently dealing with an outbreak of Haemophilus influenzae, a disease that should have been eradicated with the appropriate vaccine. There were 5 confirmed cases, with 3 children not vaccinated against the disease.

A 7-month old infant tragically died, becoming the first Haemophilus fatality in the state since 1991.

Two physician-bloggers (via Dr. Val) take a stand against parents who refuse to vaccinate their children.

WhiteCoat asks, “Should parents who fail to take steps to prevent a largely preventable illness be held accountable if their children suffer a bad outcome?” The answer is yes. Those who refuse to vaccinate their children should absolutely be held responsible.

Pediatrician Rob Lamberts tries to understand the mindset of such a parent: “These parents probably thought, ‘What’s the harm? Why can’t we just wait to do the immunizations until the risk is less?’ A 7-month old infant died from this logic.”

Indeed.