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Newton Mandates Vaccines Amid Chickenpox Outbreak

6/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Newton, Massachusetts, a recent chickenpox outbreak has led to a new mandate requiring all students to be fully vaccinated for the upcoming school year. Alarmingly, 182 students were found unvaccinated, with 42 lacking full measles protection. While families can seek medical or religious exemptions, a proposed bill could soon remove the religious option altogether.

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Story summary

In Newton, Massachusetts, a recent chickenpox outbreak has led to a new mandate requiring all students to be fully vaccinated for the upcoming school year. Alarmingly, 182 students were found unvaccinated, with 42 lacking full measles protection. While families can seek medical or religious exemptions, a proposed bill could soon remove the religious option altogether.