A video with more than 1 million engagements on social media features a person spreading an unfounded rumor that the government will take children away from parents who refuse to be vaccinated. The claim seems to be based on a story about a Chicago mother whose custody was temporarily revoked because she was unvaccinated. The ruling was roundly criticized and the judge overturned the decision, restoring the mother’s custody rights. There is no evidence to support the claim that the government will strip parental rights from unvaccinated parents. Anti-vaccine organizations are capitalizing on the fears of unvaccinated parents, and stoking them, by circulating materials with instructions on how to interact with Child Protective Services so as not to lose custody of children.
Recommendation:
Passive Response Read More +
While addressing every piece of misinformation can detract from priority talking points, the highly contagious Delta variant has highlighted the risks of COVID-19 to children under 12 who are ineligible to be vaccinated. Focusing informational materials on how vaccinated adults can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect unvaccinated minors is recommended. Fact Checking Source(s): Chicago Tribune, CDC
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