While researchers have not yet determined what causes autism, one biological factor definitely does not cause the disorder: the MMR vaccine.
In 1998, some investigators proposed that a postnatal event — the MMR vaccine — might produce Autism Spectrum Disorder in some children, thus alarming many parents. However, almost all research conducted since then has argued against this theory. Additionally the original study was found to be the result of scientific fraud and was retracted. Over the past 20+ years many parents continue to believe that vaccines can cause Autism Spectrum Disorder and refuse to immunize their children.
How has the impact of celebrities such as Jenny McCarthy coming out against vaccines had a detrimental impact on people getting their children vaccinated? Do you think that parents should have the option to not have their children immunized? Why or why not?
