Canadian researchers carried out exploratory, descriptive, open-ended interviews with a sample of 47 opponents of immunisation of Dutch ethnic background, Hutterites and parents and practitioners who engage in alternative health beliefs and practices. Among the Dutch subpopulation, most noted that their decision to refuse to immunise was based on religious beliefs. The Hutterites’ decision not to immunise was a result of their experiences with adverse reactions but was further supported by their use of alternative health. The alternative health group was more concerned with the safety of vaccines with regard to the short- and long-term effects on their children’s health.