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Mandatory vaccination is a key tool for protecting public health, especially during epidemic outbreaks or pandemics. This article presents a review of scientific and regulatory literature on vaccination from a bioethical and legal perspective, with emphasis on Panama. It examines the foundations of the right to health, the role of the government in promoting health policies, and parental responsibilities regarding childhood immunization. It also addresses challenges related to vaccine hesitancy and debates on potential liability waivers. The review identifies gaps in Panamanian health legislation and proposes actions that balance respect for individual autonomy while protecting the collective well-being. The analysis underscores the importance of a robust ethical-legal framework to guide health decisions in contexts of social controversy.