Do children who become autistic consult more often after MMR vaccination?
A close temporal association has been reported between the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination and dramatic behavioural decline in children subsequently diagnosed as autistic. We hypothesised that such a decline would be reflected in increased consultations with the child’s general practitioner. The Doctor’s Independent Network database was used to examine whether children subsequently diagnosed as autistic consulted more frequently than controls after MMR vaccination. No difference in consulting behaviour was seen in the six months post MMR. Any dramatic effect of MMR on behaviour seems unlikely.
Related Questions
- I heard that children diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorders have sensory processing problems. Does that mean my baby who has sensory processing problems will be autistic?
- What were the specific groups of children assessed to see if they were at increased risk for autism from their first MMR vaccination?
- What are some characteristics of autistic children?
