Vaccines: who should decide?

A surge in measles cases has put the spotlight on vaccine decisions –and who gets to make them. Weigh personal choice against public health and examine how nations navigate this complex divide.

Collage of pages from the “Vaccines: who should decide?” teaching resource showing the cover and lesson plan

Published 04 July 2025

About this lesson

A sharp rise in measles cases in the United States has reignited debate about vaccine policy and personal freedoms.

Who should decide who gets vaccinated – individuals, parents or the state?

Use this lesson to help students:

  • Examine the purpose and public-health impact of vaccines
  • Explore how different countries balance personal rights with collective safety
  • Debate who should decide if someone gets a vaccine

These teaching resources are supported by KPMG. The Economist Educational Foundation maintained full editorial control.

Skills and knowledge

Every lesson has a skill and knowledge focus. Click to see this lesson's focus and some of the questions students will answer 

  • Speaking

    Step 5: I speak effectively by using appropriate language
    Did you use mandatory, recommended or required when discussing vaccines in your country?

    Step 7: I speak engagingly by using facts and examples to support my points
    Did you consider the the news story, facts and examples about vaccines to support your discussion?

    Step 11: I speak adaptively by planning for different possible responses of listeners
    Did you adapt your ideas when listening to the other characters’ perspectives?

  • Knowledge

    I know that in different countries vaccines are mandatory, required or recommended.

    What are some examples of these rules in different countries?

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