MMR Vaccine - Orange,CA

I don't have any children with Autism, but a very good friend of mine does. She is a very smart and resourceful gal, as well as an amazing parent who would do anything for her boys. She and her husband have done enormous amounts of research since her oldest son was diagnosed with Autism, most if not all of which she has shared with me. Now, I am not a doctor, but I can honestly say that I would not rule out vaccines as a contributing factor for Autism...there is too much research out there that contradicts traditional medical beliefs. The argument is not that vaccines CAUSE Autism, it is that, somehow, vaccines are linked to Autism. Many experts say that the science does not show a correlation, but that is because I suspect that the correct science has yet to be done. It is an uphill battle for parents who want an alternative vaccination schedule, but there are pediatricians out there that will listen to you...good luck...

Hello A.,
I work daily with students with severe autism and write children's books on autism...so I hear a lot of talk on both sides of the conversation through my research for my books and just talk among parents. Suffice it to say, after all that I have read and heard, I am still not convinced one way or another. Autism is a neurological disorder with a genetic predisposition and some sort of environmental trigger sets it off. What that trigger is and how it affects different kids is unknown at this time. There are parents who have seen autism indicators prior to the shots and there are kids (obviously) who have received the shots with no problems. The importance of the shots is also relavent.

However, I would suggest looking onto more specific discussion sites related to autism to get a more in depth answer to your question from moms who are in the situation. http://www.autismspeaks.org/ (autism speaks) or www.autism-society.org (Autism Society of America) or look up some discussion boards relating to the topic. I must warn you that you will see fierce debate on both sides of this subject. I kind of stay neutral because my goal currently is to increase autism awareness to provide a more welcoming community to our brothers and sisters who are already diagnosed.

I know I haven't answered your question directly, but hope to have shed some light on where you might find more answers...or more questions.

Yes, currently autism is diagnosed 80% male, however, further research is finding that girls are undiagnosed due to gender issues related to diagnosis. So there likely are more than 1 out of 150 diagnosed in the future. The MMR debate just sparked again last week as ELI STONE premiered on ABC which highlighted a caes between a mother and a pharmaceutical company regarding autism/shots. Fictional of course, but sparked debate nonetheless.

Good luck in your hunt for answers,
J. Keating-Velasco
www.AisForAutism.net

Dear A.

As a grandmother to my 2year old grandson who was diagnosed with autism recently, I would just say no. Ask the pediatrician to give the shot (MMR) in separate doses. Why take a chance! He still gets the shot but in a safer way. If your Dr. does not break up the shot try calling around to find one that does.(please) Most Dr.s will say the shot is safe and I would expect them to say so, but after doing a lot of research and attending parent support groups, about 99% of parents with children who have some form of autism will agree with what I'm saying.
I pray this info helps you.
C. D

I too am reluctant about this vaccine. My son is 18 mo. and still has not received it. I am going to wait until he is 2, by then his brain will be a little more developed. The MMR is a necessity once our children are dealing with other children on a regular basis.

I was concerned as well & decided to wait until my boys were 2 yrs to get the MMR (Autism usually starts showing between 1-2 years-- from what I know). My doctor was not in support of me waiting but she didn't fight me too much.

Regarding vaccines and school--- they can still attend without them-- contrary to what some people may think.

If you're concerned -- wait. Just be cautious in what you expose them to....because without the vaccine-- your child could be at risk of getting measles, mumps, rubella.

A.,

I know it is hard for you to decide what to do

Remember without these shots he can not get into school. You do it now or he gets them all at once when he is a little older.

Be strong everything will be ok

I.