At Pediatrics West, we understand that parents want to make informed decisions about vaccines, but that can be difficult with so much conflicting information on the internet.
As healthcare providers for children and young adults, we have studied the data and scientific evidence on vaccine safety. There’s no doubt that vaccines are the best way to protect kids from preventable diseases that can cause devastating harm. We both recommend the CDC vaccine schedule as providers, and we follow them with our own children.
But, we know there is a lot of inaccurate and unproven information being passed around, and it has scared some parents away from getting safe, life-saving vaccines for their kids.
We are going to address some of the biggest vaccine myths in the blog below with scientific facts from trusted medical sources.
If you ever have questions or concerns about the pediatric immunizations, we welcome you to discuss it with us at your next appointment.
Myth: Vaccines Cause Autism
This concern stems from a 1990s paper that looked at just 12 children and suggested a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The truth? This paper was based on flawed science and was later retracted. Extensive research by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Academy of Medicine has conclusively shown no link between vaccines and autism.
While autism is often diagnosed between 18-30 months – around the same time as some vaccinations – science shows that autism develops before birth. The timing is purely coincidental.
Myth: Vaccines Contain Dangerous Mercury
Some parents worry about thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative once used in vaccines. Here are the facts:
- There are two kinds of mercury, one that is harmful (the kind found in some fish) and another that is not harmful to humans. Thimerosal contains the kind that is not harmful.
- This type doesn’t stay in the body.
- It hasn’t been used in childhood vaccines since 2001 (except for some flu vaccines). Currently Pediatrics West doesn’t use any vaccines containing thimerosal.
- Years of research show no evidence of harm from thimerosal
Myth: Vaccines Cause SIDS
Because babies receive several vaccines between 2 and 4 months – the peak age for SIDS – some parents have worried about a connection. However, scientific studies have not only disproven this link but suggest that vaccines may actually help prevent SIDS.
Myth: Childhood Diseases Aren’t a Threat Anymore
There are many devastating childhood diseases that were once common in the United States but are now rare thanks to vaccinations. However, even diseases that are considered eradicated can make a comeback. We’ve seen this with recent measles outbreaks in under-vaccinated areas. While measles was thought to be eliminated in the United States in 2000, it now continues to spread when vaccination rates drop.
Relying on the hope your child won’t be exposed to a disease because it isn’t common anymore is an unnecessary risk.
Myth: Kids Don’t Need the COVID-19 Vaccine
While COVID-19 is typically less severe for healthy children, they can still get very sick. And moderately or severely immuno-compromised children carry a higher risk if they were to get COVID-19.
Even if a child gets a mild case of COVID, there is also a high risk that they could transmit it to others who are at a high-risk of COVID-19, such as the elderly and immuno-compromised.
Making Informed Decisions
As you consider your child’s vaccines, remember:
- Rely on credible sources like HealthyChildren.org, AAP.org, and the CDC website
- Be wary of social media posts about vaccines, which often spread misinformation without scientific evidence
- Discuss any concerns with your provider, who can provide personalized guidance
- Consider that vaccines prevent serious diseases that can cause severe complications
The Bottom Line
Vaccines are safe, effective, and save lives. While it’s natural to have questions about your child’s health, it’s crucial to base decisions on scientific evidence rather than misconceptions or fear.
Remember, Pediatrics West is your partner in protecting your child’s health. We encourage you to bring any questions or concerns to your next visit. Together, we can ensure your child receives the protection they need to grow up healthy and strong.