Protection of the rights of minor patients and public health ballance: challenges of mandatory vaccination / Nepilngadīgo pacientu tiesību aizsardzība un sabiedrības veselības līdzsvars: obligātās vakcinācijas izaicinājumi

The article addresses the legal and ethical challenges of balancing the rights of minor patients, their legal representatives, and public health in Latvia, with a focus on mandatory vaccination. Triggered by a recent case of unvaccinated children contracting diphtheria, including a fatality, this study explores the legal framework surrounding parental decision-making on vaccinations and the state’s authority to enforce public health measures. The findings reveal that while parents have the right to decide on their child’s vaccination, this right is not absolute. The state may limit parental choices if mandatory vaccination is necessary to protect public health and the best interests of the child. The article highlights the need for informed refusal, emphasising comprehensive education for medical personnel and parents about vaccination consequences. It also calls for regulatory amendments to enhance public health protection in a democratic society. Keywords: child’s best interests; mandatory vaccination; parental responsibility; public health and security.