The Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccine Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccine - Essay Example The criticism is based on the possible side effects associated with the use of the vaccine The medical fraternity is in favor of the use of the MMR vaccine but the general public has been conducting Anti-MMR campaigns in order to prevent its use. The reason for the criticism from the general public is the fear that exists among parents over the side effects of the vaccine on their children. Parents fear that the MMR vaccine may be the primary cause of autism among children (Newton, 2013, p. 90) Autism is a mental condition that usually affects individuals from childhood and causes difficulty in communicating and establishing bonds with other people. It also causes slurred speech because using language and abstract expressions becomes difficult. The medical world has not been able to provide an appropriate account on the emerging issues concerning the vaccine. In 2002, Medical Research Council did a review of autism. This review covers matters on the prevalence of autism, its effects, and possible causative factors. The review finally associates a number of factors with the cause of autism but singles out genetic factors as a major cause. According to the report, there is no tangible evidence that can establish MMR vaccine as a causative agent of autism. The report further links autism with environmental and behavioral factors like the exposure to drugs or heavy metals before giving birth. Such an exposure causes genetic susceptibility to autism (Hollins, 2015, p. 1). Evaluation of the controversies has also remained accomplished by independent federal committees such as the Joint Committee on Vaccines and Immunization. The reports from these committees suggest that the argument that autism is related to MMR vaccine has no scientific basis. Therefore, the committees’ conclusion is that there is no causal link between autism and the MMR vaccine.