CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -
Parents of children in West Virginia public schools are asking exemptions for mandatory vaccinations due to religious reasons.
Mississippi is the only other state in the nation that does not allow children to skip immunizations for religious reasons. Twenty states allow philosophical objections, including neighboring Ohio and Pennsylvania.
The parents also express concerns that vaccines contain cells from abortions, or are for sexually transmitted diseases. They also suspect a financial motive behind vaccination requirements.
Public health officials sought to address such concerns at the legislative hearing. These officials warn that further exemptions will worsen West Virginia's already poor immunization rates.
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