A Current Look at the MMR and Autism Crisis

Abstract

There has been a tremendous amount of controversy between parents, autism advocacy groups, various governments and medical science about the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine and whether or not it contributes to autism. Media coverage of a hypothesis that was published in the late 1990’s suggested that autism may be a direct result of the MMR vaccination. Because little is known about the actual causes of autism, medical science has conducted several investigations that have successfully proven that the MMR vaccination does not cause autism. However, the unfortunate consequence of this dilemma is an overall decrease in much needed vaccinations. This situation not only places children at risk for three potentially deadly diseases, but it could also bring about a possible worldwide epidemic that could affect millions of people, leading to hospitalization and death.