Ethan Lindenberger

Teenager who received vaccinations against his parents will

Ethan Lindenberger (born November 2000) is an American activist known for his opposition to anti-vaccine disinformation campaigns. Lindenberger gained media attention for deciding to receive vaccinations against his mother's wishes after reaching the age of maturity.

Early Life and Family

Lindenberger grew up in an environment where his mother strongly opposed vaccines, believing in conspiracy theories that linked vaccines to adverse health effects. As a result, Lindenberger and his siblings were not vaccinated during their childhood. Despite this, he became interested in vaccines around the age of 13 and began independently researching credible sources, including CDC articles.

Lindenberger's father was hesitant about the issue, reflecting a more neutral stance but did not actively advocate for vaccinations. This created a family dynamic where his decision to pursue vaccinations was met with both resistance and reluctance.

Activism and Vaccination

In November 2018, Lindenberger posted on Reddit seeking advice on how to proceed with getting vaccinated. His post in the subreddit r/NoStupidQuestions stated:

• "My parents are kind of stupid and don't believe in vaccines. Now that I’m 18, where do I go to get vaccinated?"*

The post quickly gained attention, with users providing advice on scheduling appointments and accessing vaccines through public health clinics. Lindenberger proceeded to receive vaccinations for diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis A and hepatitis B.

Media Attention

Lindenberger’s story highlighted generational conflicts over health decisions and the influence of anti-vaccine misinformation. It gained widespread media coverage, propelling Lindenberger into the national spotlight. He publicly criticized anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, describing them as dangerous and unfounded.

Senate Testimony

In March 2019, Lindenberger testified before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions during a hearing titled *"Vaccines Save Lives: What Is Driving Preventable Disease Outbreaks?"* He spoke about the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and highlighted the role of misinformation in decreasing vaccination rates.

During his testimony, Lindenberger stated:

• "My mother is an anti-vaxxer who believes that vaccines cause autism, brain damage, and other complications. Despite her beliefs, I researched and concluded that vaccines are safe and effective."*

His testimony was widely praised for shedding light on the personal and societal impact of vaccine misinformation.

Impact and Advocacy

Lindenberger continues to advocate for science-based health policies and public education about vaccines. He has participated in interviews, public speaking engagements, and campaigns aimed at debunking myths surrounding vaccination. His story has inspired young people to seek accurate information and challenge misinformation within their communities.

Legacy

Lindenberger's decision to defy his upbringing and prioritize public health has made him a prominent figure in the fight against vaccine misinformation. His testimony before the Senate and subsequent activism have drawn attention to the consequences of anti-vaccine propaganda.

See Also

• Anti-vaccine movement
• Vaccine misinformation
• Measles outbreaks in the 21st century
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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