Newborn Immunizations: What's Required & What's Optional?

Question
My due date is today and this being my first baby I'm a little bit unsure about immunizations and such related topics. I've already decided my baby won't be getting the Hep B shot at birth, that we're going to wait atleast 6 weeks. But what I need to know is how do I know if my state requires by law any other immunizations at birth? And how do I find out the same thing about the vitamin K shot and the eye drops? All the immunizations seem unnecessary if they are preventing diseases we no longer get, such as polio, or we will probably get the diseases anyhow, such as chicken pox. And I don't like the side effects that are a possibility with either the vitamin K shot and the eye drops. They just don't seem necessary. What do you think on the subject and how do I find out what my state requires by law for newborns? I live in Maryland by the way. Thanks so much!

Jessica

Answer
Hello Jessica. Your best source of info about your state laws in the area will be a local midwife- see if you can find one and make an appointment to discuss the laws of your area- I am in Canada, so things will be very different in your area. A midwife will also be able to give you great info about the Vit. K and eye drops. Most of my home birth clients do not want either- and so they don't.Hospitals can be more difficult but in the end, it is YOUR baby and you have the right to refuse any treatments. You need to do some reading about these issues- do a web search about immunizations- there is lots of info out there- hope that helps- Cheri.