Like many people that deal with autism on a daily basis, the thought of “why my child?” has crossed my mind. Any amount of research and reading on the theories of “causality” will lead you to accounts, and some scientific research, of vaccines causing autism. The information on this topic within the autism community at large is extensive and highly polarized and now it has worked its way into the mainstream media as well, adding yet another facet to the debate. This all culminates in the need, for me, to read extensively, not only research papers, but blogs and personal accounts as well. I feel that in order to form an opinion one should try to form not only an informed opinion, but one that has looked at numerous sides of the question. It is that process that has brought me to my personal conclusion on the subject of the autism vaccine debate.

Though I can appreciate and understand the AAP’s position, it should not be taken as absolute. There is a very interesting article here by Neal Halsey, a very influencial pediatrician where he questions, and in my opinion quite rightly, the data that he has seen regarding autism and vaccinations and considers the consequences significant (this is a safe conclusion even considering the errata at the end of the article).

I, myself, have read many articles on both sides of the debate and have distilled it down to, what is for me, the true essence of the question: Thimerosal contains mercury. Mercury is known to be detrimental to neural health and functioning, and health in general and therefore, there is NO rational excuse for it to be used in the context of vaccines. I believe many, if not all, modern vaccines can be obtained with out it, and many may no longer have it (admittedly I am no expert in this area), but let’s frame the question and debate appropriately and not detract from the issue. Let us not waste any more time and research on this question, there are other things to concentrate on. I am not indicating that public health is not an important issue, I just mean this question, to me, seems easy to overcome and remove from the equation of autism and “causality” so that the precious few resources available are not squandered on what, should be, a non-starter.

There will always be those within a group that have the ability to be heard and have their issues take up a disproportionate amount of time. Just as there will always be those that will not be swayed by rational thought and intelligent discourse (not that I presume to consider my ramblings to be intelligent) on any particular subject. I fear that no matter what evidence both sides produce the battle will rage ever on, though in my opinion there really is no need.