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Vaccines: Top 5 myths about childhood vaccines

Myth: Vaccines cause autism

Fact: Despite much controversy on the topic, researchers haven't found a clear connection between autism and childhood vaccines. Although signs of autism may appear at about the same time children receive certain vaccines — such as the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine — this appears to be simply a coincidence.

Myth: Vaccines are given too early

Fact: Childhood vaccines offer protection from a variety of serious or potentially fatal diseases. Early vaccination — sometimes beginning shortly after birth — is essential because these diseases are most likely to occur when a child is very young and the risk of complications is greatest. If you postpone vaccines until a child is older, it may be too late.

Myth: It's OK to skip certain vaccines if you have safety concerns

Fact: In general, skipping vaccines isn't a good idea. This can leave your child vulnerable to potentially serious diseases that could otherwise be avoided. And consider this: For some children — including those who can't receive certain vaccines for medical reasons or those who don't seem to respond to certain vaccines — the only protection from vaccine-preventable diseases is the immunity of the people around them.

If you have reservations about particular vaccines, discuss your concerns with your child's doctor. If your child falls behind the standard vaccines schedule, catch-up vaccinations are typically available. It usually isn't necessary to repeat earlier doses of a particular vaccine.

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Aug. 1, 2008

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