If it becomes law, the chickenpox vaccine would join a growing list of shots required before kindergarten. The state already requires kids to be immunized against polio, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, mumps, measles and rubella. Lawmakers added a three-dose hepatitis B inoculation last year. Opponents say the decision should be left to parents and their family physicians. Ohio law allows parents to reject any immunizations for their children based on medical, religious or philosophical objections.
Opponents say few schools notify parents they can seek such an exemption.
The Cincinnati Enquirer , a Gannett Co. Inc. newspaper.