Today the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program ruled that the combination MMR vaccine -- with and without the preservative thimerosal -- did not contribute to three particular children's autism. These latest rulings are limited, and do not mitigate the need for further scientific investigation.
The causes of autism remain poorly understood. Autism Speaks funds an aggressive program of research on the causes and best treatments for autism. We will continue to support authoritative research that addresses unanswered questions about whether certain subgroups of individuals with particular underlying medical or genetic conditions may be more vulnerable to adverse effects of vaccines. While large scale studies have not shown a link between vaccines and autism, there are lingering legitimate questions about the safety of vaccines that must be addressed. Our families deserve nothing less than an exhaustive search using a rigorous scientific approach.
The millions of Americans affected by autism continue to seek answers to a wide array of critical questions, from what genetic and environmental factors may contribute to autism to how we can develop better treatments and effective methods for early diagnosis. Their everyday struggles and frustrations continue, as they fight for insurance coverage, services and access to education, while also bearing tremendous financial and emotional burdens.
Autism Speaks Statement on Vaccine Research and Safety
Letter from Geri Dawson, Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer, to the National Vaccine Advisory Committee (PDF)
Editorial by Lou Cooper on “Protecting Public Trust in Immunization” from the journal Pediatrics (PDF)
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