We, the providers of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, LLP, feel that immunizing infants, children, and teenagers against life-threatening diseases is the most important part of our job.
Epiglottitis, bacterial meningitis, measles, congenital rubella syndrome, and other serious diseases we diagnosed and treated early in our careers are now very rarely seen. Yet, we find some parents reluctant to vaccinate their children. Usually, they worry about the safety of vaccines. The concerns may be about immediate side effects or that vaccines might cause autism. Some feel that the risk of contracting diseases is low. Others feel that the diseases prevented are not particularly serious.
Autism Speaks, a major advocacy group for families, says: “Over the last two decades, extensive research has asked whether there is any link between childhood vaccinations and autism. The results of this research are clear: Vaccines do not cause autism.” Diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis (DTP) was licensed for use in children in 1949. After 70+ years of use, no long-term problems have arisen. In 1955, the first polio vaccine was licensed, pioneered by Dr. Jonas Salk. Yet polio is not yet eradicated. Afghanistan and Pakistan still have outbreaks. In 2013, wild poliovirus was detected in sewage in Israel. Rather than relying on questionable online blogs, families are encouraged to read medical articles which objectively address their concerns:
These studies do not show any link between autism or developmental problems and MMR vaccine, thimerosal, or multiple vaccines given at once. The evidence and our clinical experience clearly show that the benefits of immunizations outweigh any potential risks. Of course, the safety and effectiveness of vaccines are under constant study. Our providers are constantly keeping up with new medical information and incorporating that knowledge into our care.
Our providers will review the risks versus benefits of vaccines during Well Child visits. We will work with families to fully vaccinate their children. Families who refuse to vaccinate their children may be better served using another pediatric group.
