By Dave Branco
Bodily Autonomy

Teens have the individual freedom to get the shot or not

Nov 1, 2021 | 3:42 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – In the Province of British Columbia, anyone between the ages of 13 and 19 and living with a guardian, can choose whether or not to get the jab.

According to provincial law, anyone between the ages of 13 and 19 is a mature minor.

They have rights based on individual freedom to make decisions over one’s own life and future.

According to Dr. Launtensach, Adjunct Professor at UNBC School of Education, a mature minor can refuse to get the jab, but the parent can not necessarily withhold their consent.

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If there is a dispute between the mature minor and guardian, the onus is on a healthcare provider to verify that the mature minor has enough competence to consent.

In Northern BC, 80% of the population age 12 and older have received at least one dose, 72% are fully immunized with two doses.

by Dave Branco

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