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MMR Vaccine - The Facts |
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The MMR vaccine has been the subject of much media attention over the last few weeks and months. Many of the opinions expressed have been inaccurate and misleading. Here we will give you some simple facts.
Is MMR Vaccine safe?
On the available evidence there is no doubt that MMR is safe. It has been given to more than 500 million children in over 90 countries worldwide. Extensive research has shown that it is both safe and effective.
What about Autism?
The incidence of Autism has increased in the UK over the last 40 years probably because the condition is better diagnosed. The number of cases of Autism was not influenced by the introduction of MMR in 1988. The only piece of research to suggest that there may be a link between Autism and MMR was conducted on just 12 children. All other research in this area involving thousands of children has concluded that there is no link.
Why not give the vaccines separately
Giving the three vaccines separately has not been shown to be safe or effective. It would leave children unprotected or only partially protected. No country in the world recommends single Measles vaccine instead of MMR. The single Measles vaccine is unlicensed for use in the UK.
We urge all parents to consider the facts and not to be swayed by the media hysteria. We recognise that you are concerned by the publicity and we are happy to discuss your concerns individually. But please realise that not allowing your child the MMR vaccine is exposing him or her to unnecessary danger. At Kerrsland Surgery we support fully the Government policy on MMR and we have made sure that our own children have received this vaccine. |
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Dr. E. Coulter |
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