Thimerosal, a vaccine preservative that contains ethyl mercury, has not been used in more than trace amounts in vaccines in the United States since 2001. I have access to thimerosal free vaccines for all 16 types of vaccines that I offer to my patients.
Numerous studies around the world have shown that vaccines do not cause autism. Thimerosal was removed from vaccines in Sweden and Denmark in 1992 and their autism rates have continued to increase.
The recommendation of the Mercury Awareness Team to have children receive no vaccines until age two is a threat to the safety of my patients. Unimmunized children under age two are vulnerable to dying or being hospitalized from meningitis, sepsis, pneumonia, rotavirus and pertussis. Children die in our state from pertussis every year.
The Mercury Awareness Team should shift its focus and efforts to areas of true mercury exposure to children and families.
Pediatricians want to help families make choices that protect children. Vaccines are continuously monitored for safety and efficacy and have been one of the most life saving developments in medicine.
