Moms Talk: Vaccinations

A recent measles outbreak in Minneapolis has brought to life the repercussions of not vaccinating children for infectious diseases like measles-mumps-rubella, but parents remain wary of the long-term cost of vaccinations for some children.

A study by a British scientist, Andrew Wakefield, establishing a link between autism and the MMR vaccination was retracted in February by the prestigious medical journal that published it, citing fraudulent research. What scientists cannot retract is the seeded distrust among parents that remains.

Some parents remain fearful of vaccination side effects, which can mimic the illness itself in the case of influenza. Others are still convinced of the link to autism, like some parents involved in the Somali community that was impacted by the recent outbreak. The use of thimerosal, a preservative that kills bacteria in vaccines, also raises concerns for its mercury content, though most vaccines for children under age six now contain no or trace amounts of thimerosal, according to the FDA.

As part of this week's Moms Talk, we're asking you to weigh in on this issue: What stance has your family taken on the vaccination of your children? Are you fearful of certain health effects? Why?

Our six-member Moms Council — including, , , and —is ready to weigh in on the discussion this week and encourage you to share your thoughts as well.

Post your thoughts, advice or questions in the comments section below. Also, if you live in the area and are interested in joining our Moms Council, e-mail Editor David Henke at david.henke@patch.com.