The Vaccine Act 1853

The Vaccine Act of 1853 was a law passed in the UK to promote smallpox vaccination. It made vaccination compulsory for children, aiming to reduce the disease's spread and severity. The act established official vaccination programs, set standards for the process, and authorized authorities to enforce vaccination. It also provided legal options like fines for non-compliance, balancing public health needs with individual rights. Overall, the act was a significant step in the fight against smallpox, encouraging widespread vaccination to protect the population's health.