The experts weigh in ...

By Staff Reports

The Herald asked two experts about the pros and cons of vaccinating children against common diseases and what is known about the causes of autism.

They are Dr. Jennifer Shu, spokeswoman for the American Academy of Pediatrics, and Marguerite Colston, spokeswoman for the Autism Society of America.

The Herald asked two experts about the pros and cons of vaccinating children against common diseases and what is known about the causes of autism.

They are Dr. Jennifer Shu, spokeswoman for the American Academy of Pediatrics, and Marguerite Colston, spokeswoman for the Autism Society of America.

Dr. Jennifer Shu American Academy of Pediatrics

What is the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation on vaccines?

The recommendation is to keep with the current schedule from the Centers for Disease Control.

Do vaccines cause autism?

There is no research that proves autism spectrum disorder is caused by vaccinating children. There have always been theories, but no scientific proof. No studies show that the delay or omission of vaccines affect autism.

Despite the research, why do some people believe vaccines cause autism spectrum disorder?

ASD is diagnosed at a time when children are receiving vaccines. Parents of autistic children are often looking for what caused autism, and relate it to vaccines because they are happening at the same time. Much media attention is given to adverse effects of vaccines and little attention is given to success stories of vaccines, such as no one gets measles anymore.

Can vaccines cause adverse reactions in children?

Common reactions are mild fever, redness and swelling at the injection site. These reactions are not serious. One in a million children will have a severe reaction, resulting in a high fever and lasting neurological damage. This type of reaction is extremely rare.

Is thimerosal in vaccines a concern?

Research has shown that thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative once used in several vaccines and still used in some flu vaccines, is not related to ASD. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the CDC, and the Institute of Medicine agree that science does not support a link between thimerosal in vaccines and autism.

Are combination shots dangerous?

Combination vaccines protect against more than one disease with a single shot. For example, the MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. These vaccines have been studied carefully and found to be safe. All vaccines contain antigens, which cause the immune system to do its work to fight and protect the body from infections. Children are exposed to many antigens during normal activities, such as playing outside or eating food, or when sick with an infection. Healthy children's immune systems are equipped to handle these multiple exposures.

--Mary Jo Balasco

Marguerite Colston Autism Society of America

What is the Autism Society of America's recommendation on vaccinations?

We do know that vaccines have significantly reduced life-threatening diseases in children around the globe. The Autism Society of America strongly supports research to determine if, in fact, there is a correlation between vaccines and ASD. Until that research is performed and replicated, vaccines continue to be indicated.

Do vaccines cause autism spectrum disorder in children?

What we don't know is if there is an issue regarding the amount, the timing or the medium used to deliver the vaccines that would result in a child developing ASD or other developmental disorders. More research also needs to be done on the health condition of a child receiving the vaccine.

What are possible causes of autism spectrum disorder?

There are no known single causes of ASD, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Researchers are investigating many theories, such as genetics, underlying medical problems and environmental toxins as causes for ASD.

What is causing the rapidly rising rates of autism spectrum disorders?