EFN

Three cases for vaccine-related causation of autism were found to be scientifically unsupported in Federal court, March 12, 2010. It was ruled there was no scientific connection between the thimerosal-containing vaccines and autism. Parents and advocacy groups argued that the ruling represents a conspiracy to protect vaccination programs.

More than 5300 cases have been filed since 1986 when congress set up a special judicial forum, sometimes called the “vaccine court,” to address claims over vaccine safety. Parents sued through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), which was formed in 1988. It was established to ensure an “adequate supply of vaccines, stabilize vaccine costs, and establish and maintain an accessible and efficient forum” for individuals found injured by certain vaccines.

Thimerosal, a mercury-derived compound, was used a preservative in some childhood vaccines prior to 1999. Questions arose as to its involvement with autism and it was removed from most vaccines. A 12 year study done by researchers at the California state Department of Public Health, found that autism rates have continued to rise, despite its removal from vaccines.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Institute of Medicine agree with the recent court ruling in its rejection of vaccines and/or thimerosal as causative agents of autism. Research continues towards finding the real cause of autism.