MMR vaccine and autism

The MMR vaccine is an immunization vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). The vaccine was first developed by Maurice Hilleman at Merck in the late 1960s. The MMR vaccine is widely used around the world, with over 500 million doses having been given in over 90 countries as of 2001.

The autism spectrum encompasses a range of neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism and Asperger syndrome, generally known as autism. These disorders are characterized by social deficits and communication difficulties, stereotyped or repetitive behaviors and interests, sensory issues, and in some cases, cognitive delays.

The controversy surrounding the MMR vaccine and autism originates from a 1998 study by Andrew Wakefield et al., published in the medical journal The Lancet. The study suggested a link between the MMR vaccine and the onset of autism and bowel disease. However, the study was later retracted due to serious procedural errors, undisclosed financial conflicts of interest, and ethical violations. Wakefield lost his medical license and the paper was fully retracted from The Lancet.

Numerous epidemiological studies have been conducted since Wakefield's paper was published, and none have found a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Major scientific and medical bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences, the UK National Health Service (NHS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have all stated that there is no evidence of a link between the MMR vaccine and autism.

Despite the scientific consensus, the controversy has had significant effects on public health. MMR vaccination rates have decreased in some areas, leading to outbreaks of measles and mumps, diseases which had been nearly eradicated in these areas.

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