The cause of autism remains uncertain after research connecting it to the MMR (Mumps-Measles-Rubella) vaccination has been gradually questioned.
Andrew Wakefield, along with other researchers, published an article in The Lancet in 1998 that attempted to link autism to the MMR vaccination, but this research is being discredited.
According to the American Medical Association, this research has several critical flaws, including fabricated results.
The research discouraged parents from having their children receive the MMR vaccination, which gives live doses of the measles, mumps and rubella.
Sherry Windham, immunizations program manager for the Alachua County Health Department, questions the research.
“You would think if someone was doing a study, there would be several participants in the study, not just 12,” Windham said.
She said she’s noticed more people today believe vaccination is a “bad thing.”
Darlene Edwards, a pharmaceutical representative, feels it’s a disservice to a child not to be vaccinated.
However, Edwards has friends who believe there is a link between the MMR vaccinations and autism.
In March of 2010, American Medical News reported that one in five believe some vaccines cause autism.
