A report published today by the California State Department of Public Health says that they’ve done a longitudinal study that suggests there’s no link between vaccines that contain trace amounts of mercury and autism.
Over a period of 12 years (1995 to 2007) autism cases in California continued to rise despite the fact that thimerosal has not been used in childhood vaccines since 2001. If theimerosal was to blame for autism, then the rate of autism cases should’ve dropped after 2001. Doctors are suggesting that this study is yet another piece of evidence against the idea that vaccinations cause autism.
What I found interesting is that the study also notes a spike in autism in more recent years. However it is unclear as to whether autism is actually increasing, or perhaps that autism is more easily classified and there is better diagnostic criteria.
Advocacy groups on the other hand are asking that the study be replicated by independent scientists. They point out that vaccination rates have also risen dramatically over the last twelve years and that the fact that autism rates are still rising is concerning.
The director of the Autism Autoimmunity Project (as well as other advocacy groups) claim that hundreds of parents call them every month saying that their children were perfectly healthy and became autistic short after a routine immunization.
Some groups and physicians are suggesting that researchers begin looking for multiple linked causes. Perhaps a specific gene, plus an immunization or a certain environmental factor all play a part in the autism puzzle. Many parents, researchers and physicians involved in information and advocacy groups say that the link between immunizations and autism is too big to ignore.
Most children will have received their full set of vaccinations by 18 months, but you can delay vaccinations if you feel that is right for your baby.
Related Articles:
You can read more about Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Special Needs Blog.
Do Vaccinations Cause Autism? One Mother’s Viewpoint
Merck Recalls 1.2 Million Doses of Vaccine
Are Vaccines Safe? Other Information You Should Know
Ask a Baby Blogger: Q & A on Vaccines