Flu shot, schmu shot

So, apparently flu shots are now mandatory for New Jersey preschoolers. Where do I even begin with this?

First off, I have a hard time with the state mandating that I must inject anything into my child. Typically it wouldn't be too big of a deal. I'd say "fill out a philosophical exemption" and be done with it, but NJ only has religious and medical exemptions. True, I don't live in New Jersey, but this sets a terrifying precident. Today it is New Jersey, tomorrow it could be Arkansas.

Secondly, why can the state mandate private preschools? I understand the logic behind vaccinating publicly schooled children. Attend the public's school, abide by the state's rules. But for a privately owned preschool? It just doesn't seem right.

Third, while many organizations push the flu vaccine, it hasn't even been proven truely effective. Many are still preserved with mercury as well, which is one of the culprits of the big vaccine/autism debate.

I, quite simply, am not on board with forced vaccinations, flu or otherwise.