Ontario Vaccine Deliberation

Vaccines have been described as one of the greatest achievements in combating infectious diseases and promoting human health. However, not everyone shares this view. For some, childhood vaccinations are controversial, leading to individuals choosing to not vaccinate their children. To examine issues surrounding childhood vaccination, the Discourse, Science, Publics (DSP) Lab at University of Guelph recently hosted the Ontario Vaccine Deliberation in Waterloo, Ontario on October 14, 15, 28 and 29, 2017. Twenty-five randomly selected adults from across Ontario came together to share their views on childhood vaccination in a public deliberation event. Prior to the event, participants received the Ontario Vaccine Deliberation Information Booklet. During the event, participants heard from several experts and key stakeholders with diverse views on vaccination and related issues and worked together in small and large-group formats over the 4-days to identify and discuss important issues relevant to childhood vaccinations. As a collective group, the participants developed policy recommendations that reflect the diverse views of the group.