Yes, we're all freaked out about the links between autism and vaccinations. Many of us respond to this fear by working with our kids' pediatricians and avoiding vaccinations we don't deem absolutely necessary. Some believe that about 2 to 3 per cent of American school children are under-vaccinated because parents are opting out.
I fall into this category. From the day my newest babe was born, I knew he'd have to get a "religious waiver" to go to public school. We decided, with his doctor, to avoid the Hepatitis B vaccine, at least for now. Instead, we pick and choose, depending on exposure. It's the "herd mentality": if most of the population is vaccinated for something, it isn't likely to spread to those who do not vaccinate. Occasionally, however, it is a roulette of sorts. In certain areas, like where I live, I'd wager that the number of minimally vaccinated kids is easily higher than 2-3 percent.
That said, measles is making a comeback. The Centers for Disease Control report that
From January 1 through April 25, 2008, CDC received a total of 64 reports of confirmed measles cases in nine states — the highest number for the same time period since 2001.
Many of the cases among US children occurred in children whose parents claimed exemption from vaccination due to religious or personal beliefs, or in children too young to be vaccinated.
Only one person in these 64 had prior history of vaccination. Thirteen of these cases were in infants too young to be vaccinated. Earlier this month, 7 cases were reported in Illinois alone, raising the number even higher. Measles had been considered to be eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but is still common in many places in the world. It is highly contagious by coughing and sneezing and can cause symptoms from rash and a high fever to complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis (brain swelling). The vaccination that may prevent measles is given as MMR, a combination measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
The CDC say that it is important to follow the recommended Immunization Schedule. However, the CDC also disputes that there is any link between autism and vaccinations. While it does not exactly seem to be the cause, it does seem to play a part, along with genetics and environmental factors. For many parents, on the off chance that there is a link, they choose to avoid vaccinations preserved with mercury.
Take this for what it is worth. Work with your pediatrician to figure out what is best for your family. And above all, trust yourself.
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