Vaccines

Sharon - posted on 07/20/2010

My children have awesome immune systems. If they catch a cold it may last a day or two but no longer then that. I have seen kids who are fully vaccinated who can't say the same My friends entire family had the measles none of them are vaccinated and they are all well it is all about what our bodies can and not do to protect themselves.. If you fill your body with the chemicals and junk in vaccines all you are doing is putting the virus into the body and hoping the body will build an immunity to it.. yet some of those chemicals can actually lower the immune system.. How many people get the flu shot every year and still catch the flu.. When i was a kid if you got chickenpox you build an immunity to it and didn't catch it again it is the same with other illnesses. My little brother even got the mumps after getting vaccinated for it.. Getting vaccinated does not ensure you will not get the illness anymore then not getting vaccinated. As i said before it is really an individual choice .. What is right for me may not be right for others but that is the beauty of our great country we have the freedom of choice. I only suggest to others to do their research and make a choice based on their own individual belief nothing else. If they vaccinate i tell them to get the lot number of the bottle that is being used so they can have it if ever there is an issue that they would need to report for vaccine injury.. Again freedom of choice it is the parents choice no one elses.

Betsy - posted on 07/20/2010

There was a british Dr. who made the correlation between shots and autism in 1998. He came to the conclusion that because a lot of children are diagnosed at around the age of one and the MMR vaccine is given around that time, they must be related. He could just as easily have blamed it on the birthday cake a child eats when they turn one. He has since been proven to be widely mistaken. He has even lost his medical license in the UK. NO ONE has ever been able to replicate his "results." You shouldn't worry about the link. Some doctors offices do have the shots broken down into multiple shots instead of one big shot. However, there is no evidence that doing this is any better and it will mean more individual sticks with the needle. Good luck.

Stacy - posted on 07/20/2010

Sharon, you say you home school your kids so they are not around other kids to be at risk... but do your kids ever leave the house? Do they go to the movies, the mall, the park? Do they have friends? If so, then they are at risk.

Stacy - posted on 07/20/2010

Kallie, if it's so risky to get your child vaccinated, why are you going to do it at 3 years old? You can't have it both ways... either the shots are too dangerous or they're not. My son is 3 months and change, he got his shots at 2 months and will be getting the next in the series at his next appt in 3 weeks. My brother and I were immunized and there is nothing wrong with us... why put your child at risk of getting these dangerous diseases from some other un-vaccinated person?

Amanda - posted on 07/20/2010

Check out thinktwice.com I don't do vaccines, but it is not for fear of autism, it is everything else...

Chastity - posted on 07/20/2010

Autism is just a tip of the iceberg when it comes to vaccines. Do some research. I have three boys and my first one stopped speaking, literally, after his third round of shots. I did not know any better when I gave them to him, but now I do. My other children have not had even one. STOP. While you are ahead. There are exemption forms you can get. Get them.

Ruth - posted on 07/20/2010

Please re-read my statement. I did not say there was aborted fetal tissue in the vaccine. I said the MMR and chickenpox vaccines began with "aborted fetal cell lines" therefore I find it immoral to use. After all the ends never justifies the means in my mind. Nor does injecting my vulnerable infant with other human cells make sense. I say at least let the child's natural immunity develop before injecting them with vaccines that are not full proof anyways. Children with immunizations still get sick. According to independent studies just as often (if not more) as un-immunized children. One other thing for people to ponder is that it is ok to question and yes even disagree with the "experts" like doctors and nurses that mean well. As long as you educate and inform yourself choosing not to immunize is not a bad thing. As long as you keep your child's environment reasonably clean and safe.

Sarah - posted on 07/20/2010

Vaccinations are extremely important, that's why there is a push in Africa to vaccinate children. In places where vaccines are not accessible children die of horrible diseases, whooping cough, measles, etc. My father had polio as a child, can you imagine having your kid wake up one morning and suddenly not be able to move their legs? Terrible!

I would do your research, but ultimately you are not a doctor. The majority of doctors will recommend vaccinations because they save lives!

Marcia - posted on 07/20/2010

Read what a very respected medical doctor has to say about it. The book is "Lying With Authority" by: Dr. Dan E. Chesnut.

Marcia - posted on 07/20/2010

I am a mother of 4 and grandmother of 3 and I have a strong opinion about vaccines. I started out getting all of them for my children until my 4th child experienced seizers. I had been reading about the dangers and would go back and forth getting some and then not getting them. I made the commitment to stop all shots and my children have been just fine. I do not trust the drug companies or the pediatricians on this matter. Read the book "Lying With Authority" by: Dr. Dan E. Chesnut, MD.

Kimberly - posted on 07/20/2010

There is not a PROVEN link between vaccines and autism. However, there are lots of other issues with vaccines. Check out The Vaccine Book by Dr. Sears. It is a WONDERFUL resource to have, whether you are vaccinating or not. Look at the ingredients in vaccines, look at the severity of the disease you are vaccinating against, etc....there is a lot more to take into account other than autism!

Kathleen - posted on 07/20/2010

I have two children who are current on all of their shots, they are both healthy and active. Including having both vaccinated with swine flu this past year. Do research but I would strongly suggest discussing the pros and cons with your pediatrican.

Bevin - posted on 07/20/2010

It is always good to be informed, however, there is such a thing as too much inforation. What was thought before as a link between autism and vaccines is now being disproven. The reason the diseases we vaccinate our children with are no longer around is because of the vaccines. If everyone stops getting these shots, the diseases may come back, and might be stronger than before. The best thinbg to do is to talk to your pediatrician about your concerns. If he/she is a good doctor, they will answer all your questions and you will feel good about whatever decision you make.

Korrine - posted on 07/20/2010

I'm another Mum who has two beautiful boys with Autism. My eldest was born with Autism and the other regressed at 13 months. My personal belief is the Autism is related to genetics and their is a trigger for these children and that trigger can happen during pregnancy or any time after.

But I totally agree with the Mum's above who have said research and make the decision based on what you think is best for your child. There are such a range of opinion's on the subject that it will never give you an answer that is totally for or totally against.

My only advice is make sure if you do decide to get his needles done, make sure he is 100% healthy leading up to getting them and if your really concerned find a gp who will space them out for you.

It's not an easy decision when your concerned about something like this and it will never be black and white but as Mum's all we can do is make choices for our children that we feel are in their best interest.

I love my two gorgeous boys, life isn't what I expected in having children and we certainly have our tough days (but who doesn't) but would I change my boys, not on your life! They are mine, they teach me something new every day and I am a better person for having them.

Good luck in your decision, I hope your young man grows into a healthy and happy young man :0)

Tammarah - posted on 07/20/2010

A friend of mines son had a stroke when he was born due to vaccination, she never got him done again. My brother (who is 17 and fineand healthy) ended up in hospital from a 'bad' dose. My step mum still got his others and he still got whooping chough quite bad. I never wanted to get my boy done but was pressured by my partner and just about everyone else. There is evidence of ADHA and autisum with vacinations. If you read the ingredience you'll see why. Things such as aborted fetuses, mercury, ect. Don't let this scare you there is a place for them. I have 5 brothers and sisters (all halfs) 2 have mild autism with one have ADHA aswell, 1 with ADD, another with Hyperactivity. It's not only the vaccines that are causing this rise, toxins in food, environment all of it. You need to decied if you want to get your little one done. Think of the benefits and the risks. If it helps you can get homeopathic vaccinations, thats what I'm doing for mine next lots. He is 19 mths and had all his needles and is so far fine and healthy.

Kassie - posted on 07/20/2010

Dont let anyone else tell you what to do. It has to be yalls decision. I have given my six year old the shots and I have given my 4 month old the shots. The only one I dont agree with is the chicken pox shot. To me you have to weigh the odds of what they can get without the shots and what they can get with the shots and the percentage of kids that get sick from either. I love my kids and I would rather have to deal with them having autism then dye from some of the things they can get from not getting shots.

Margie - posted on 07/20/2010

my little grandson has developed something after his six month shots, it is very distressing. It has been called 'shudder syndrome ' by one doctor, but he is waiting for a neurologist appointment. has anyone heard of this?

Sunny - posted on 07/20/2010

I like Amy and Joanna's post- it's not about agreeing with people or not- vaccines have NOT been proven to create the disease- that study was completely disproven, as was the man who was behind it (even lost his credentials). We all love our kids and want them to be healthy- if you choose not to get vaccines for your children, my children are further at risk. It hurts the community and the links about vaccines and autism are hyped up. Good luck with everything!!!

Stephanie - posted on 07/20/2010

There is no proof that vaccines harm children. Ask you mother if you got vaccines. The reseach into Autism says that they have no reall idea what casues it. It looks like it is in the mothers genes. But all of these people that tell you vaccines are the casue are full of it. Most of the vaccines our children get today are just like the ones we got at their age. There are a few like the one for chicken poxs that we didn't get. And we are fine. Many of us even got the chicken poxs and are fine. What it really comes down to is do you want to worry about your childs getting all kinds of this that you didn't get becasue you were given vaccines, or not. Unless you see signs for autism in your child do not worry about it. There are a lot of other things to worry about.

Stephanie - posted on 07/20/2010

The big battle is the necessary of the two evils. Your kids could die if they don't get shots. It could also be that something in the vaccines contributes to us getting other kinds of diseases and who knows what? Does anyone really know how EVERY ingredient of every vaccine affects the human body- and EVERY human body since we are all so different? I highly doubt it. May I throw it out there that this is one of the many reasons that I put my hope and trust in Jesus Christ?
I can do all the research I want but everyone is so bias toward one side or the other that it's very hard to find hard data to support either side at all. All I have seen and heard and know teaches me to trust Him for all I cannot see or know! Especially the most precious things in the world to me- my children. Do what research you can, and if it sounds wacko and extreme on either side throw it out and keep looking. I decided to give my daughter her vaccines, only about six months behind on everything. But I cannot trust in the vaccines. I think there is probably stuff in them that is bad for us. But I had to decide what I thought was most responsible and best for her, and then put her in God's hands knowing that HE is ultimately the one who keeps her healthy and safe, and that He loves her infinitely more than I even can. He made her.

Joanne - posted on 07/20/2010

at the end of the day, there is such a division when it comes to this issue that it's best for you to do the research and make your own decisions. Everyone can give you opinions and reasons why you should or shouldn't but you always want to go with your motherly instinct and conviction that the reason you're choosing a certain way for your child is right for him. You will have no regrets if you decide for yourself, regardless of the outcome :) Good luck with everything! And you're doing a great job mom!!

Mandy - posted on 07/20/2010

You have an awesome perspective Lesley. Your son is very lucky to have you. I feel the same way about my son. You learn so much about yourself. Autism is truly seeing the world through love's eyes.

Lesley - posted on 07/20/2010

Hi Mandy, i have an Autistic son whos now 11 and hes just started residential schooling so i get him home for the holidays.
I didnt get the word 'mummy' till he was 5.
yes its been a struggle and a fight to get him all the help he needs and if there was a vaccine available to cure my son i would turn it down because he is autism and its what makes him the handsome cheeky boy he is, im proud of him and all he acheives.
I have become more patient,more tolerant, more loving and hes given me strength.

Mandy - posted on 07/20/2010

I agree Lesley. Children with autism and all children are special. My son has taught me more in my life than I have ever learned any other way and watching him change before my eyes as a 4 year old finally able to receive the world was amazing. We all want what's best for our kids and that is so individual. Even if my son had not improved on the diet we put him on I would love him just the same. He is an amazing person with such a unique perspective and for him to be able to share it with me is such a blessing. Autism can be a struggle, but it is awesome too. I also recommend the book Autism and the God Connection by William Stillman. He himself has Aspergers and is an autism advocate. It is an amazing book about the gifts of autism and will give you a whole new perspective on autism, whether you know an autistic person or not.

Lesley - posted on 07/20/2010

I agree with Jessica if your child is showing signs then get them checked out.
Going what i have read on this thread a lot of scare mongering going on right now, if your children have never had a vaccine and are healthy count your blessings.
What is wrong with having an Autistic child, every one is unique in their own way and they are loved by parents who are sick to the back teeth of the amount of negativity there is in this world. We have not had it easy Autism isnt lol but when you see a slight change which others take for granted it makes your efforts as a parent all worthwhile.
I personally believe its genetics just bad luck that the signs show up when the child has its MMR, its like cancer i believe we all carry it but something triggers it in some and not in others.

Danielle - posted on 07/20/2010

While i understand ppls veiws on the matter, i still chose to vaccinate my children. But i chose to do it so that they would not be over vaccinated. Like i said separated doses are one way inwhich we can safely do the vaccinations. My daugther got sick when she was giving the MMR shot so from then on i asked that she not be given those shots together. I had to wait because the doctor had to order them but i feel it was worth it. Do the research and find your own way because everything is going to tell you something different. Even the doctors are torn about this matter. It's up to you.

Laura--Lee - posted on 07/20/2010

Sarah, I like you have done my research on vaccines 20 yrs ago , I was pregnant with my 4 child and researching my odds of natural childbirth after 3 C-sections...this in itself was a challenge with the medical profession but I went on to research all topics....vaccines included as well as flouride...I know have 7 children and my last 2 are now 8 and 9 and have never been immunized and I will keep it that way too ....

Jennifer - posted on 07/20/2010

Someone may have posted this already, so apologies if I'm redundant. Andrew Wakefield, the researcher that 'discovered' the link between Autism and the MMR shot has been widely discredited. His work has never been reproduced. He lost his post at the university and the claims of any links have been retracted. There are several reports that have been published based on very large studies that show NO LINK between vaccinations and Autism. Rates of autism are indeed on the rise in North America, but it's very likely unrelated to any vaccine. On the flip side, if your child gets the illnesses that they are NOT vaccinated against, there is a very high chance of morbidity and even mortality. In other words, logic dictates that you are better off with the vaccine.
Cheers, Mom of vaccinated children

Lesley - posted on 07/20/2010

I am English and and live in the UK, Both my sons have all the vaccines that they say the children should have, my eldest is 11 and diagnosed with Autism, my youngest is 3 and doesnt have Autism.
There is no link between vaccines and Autism, you could your more harm if they caught measles as in worst case measles can kill.
I think the only person who can advise you is your doctor who knows you and your family.
here in the Uk we have lots of so-called proffessionals that say Autism can be cured, thats BS its a quick rich scheme aimed at parents without full knowledge and desperately looking for a 'cure'.

Mandy - posted on 07/20/2010

It's so great that so many people out there do not have issues with vaccines, us I believe being one of them. However, if you as a mother are questioning this for your child, something is making you do it. I understand those that are carte blanc all for vaccinating. I have many friends that way. I would say also, do your research and don't just read the mainstream stuff. Read all sides and if possible look at who is funding the 'findings'. Sad to say but a lot of these studies are swayed by money. Not to say either one side or the other is true and correct. each of us are individual ans react differently to medicines, vaccines and the like. So to blanketley say one way or the other is truely impossible.

Stephanie - posted on 07/20/2010

kids get diagnosed shortly ater that age that they get the shots because that is when they are old enough to show the signs and get evaluated not because they got shots. I have a 7 year old that i autistic and have done all of the research in the world and there is no correlation to the vaccine. Anyone that flips out and blames it on the vaccine is taking the wrong approach to help their child.

Mandy - posted on 07/20/2010

Thankfully, there is hope for parents of these children. Between dietary protocols, chelation (of all different types, including juicing - all about it in Gut and psychology syndrome) and some therapies, a larger number of these kids are getting well today. Because of our journey, I have dedicated my life to this and gone back to school to better learn how to serve these parents and children. Vaccines are definitely part of the puzzle as well as gut health of the parents and child. Good luck in making your decisions on vaccines.

Rachel - posted on 07/20/2010

there is no medical connection between vaccines and autism - your child should be fully vaccinated. My son has had all vaccines - so far (he is 20 mo) and no pblms - there is no connection. You can hold off on the MMR and have that one done a little later - around 16-18 months. But it is not true - get your child vaccinated!

Joanne - posted on 07/20/2010

yes, I've heard that is a great book, and you're right...it's not the actual vaccines.. it's the effects of the vaccines on an already compromised immune system. But the high metal contents in the vaccines are not good either. Either way, millions of children get vaccinated each year with no regression. At the same time the rise of autism statistics is cause for alarm and should encourage some research on the parents' part.

Mandy - posted on 07/20/2010

For us personally, I don't feel that autism was caused by vaccines. I really don't feel that autism is 'caused' by vaccines, But I think it definitely can be triggered by vaccines. The immune system of a child can be suppressed to the point that the introduction of vaccines is enough to manifest the set of symptoms that has been labeled as autism. I too know moms who have reported regression after vaccines. Another great book is Gut and Psychology Syndrome by Natasha Campbell McBride. It is not specifically on vaccines but it has a wealth of information on the relation of intestinal health to autism and other neurological disorders. It is a great read even if you are not a mom in the midst of autism.

Joanne - posted on 07/20/2010

PS Autism is not a rumor as others are saying. I unfortunately know 3 moms personally whose children have become autistic after vaccines. The numbers and statistics are too staggering and evident for it to be a rumor. So PLEASE educate yourself and make an informed decision based on what you have learned. Do not let ppl sway you one way other the other.

Sayward - posted on 07/20/2010

The autism rumour - because frankly, that's what it is - was founded on only a handful of questionable studies. There are far more, reliable studies that indicate vaccines are not correlated with autism. And yes, it's true that the original panic-mongering Dr. Wakefield has had his license revoked. As others have said, I have never encountered an autistic child as a result of vaccines... but I have encountered seriously damaged children who did not receive vaccines. Do your research, and make sure that includes talking with your doctor... but please, at least consider an altered vaccine schedule so that perhaps your baby isn't exposed to all of the vaccines at one appointment. Don't skip them all - it exposes your child to risks, as well as other children.

Joanne - posted on 07/20/2010

Get the Vaccine Book by Dr. Sears. It's very informational and make your own decision based on what you feel is best for your child, so in the end you will go to bed knowing that you did the best you could and you didnt make decisions based on other people's opinions. Educate yourself and decide for yourself.

Mandy - posted on 07/20/2010

If you have questions about vaccines, going to a DAN (Defeat Autism Now) doctor might be an option. They can answer vaccine questions and they also give vaccines separately and without thermerosal sp? (mercury) as an additive. I personally stopped doing vaccines for both of my children once I found out my older son had PDD-NOS at the age of 4. He is now almost 10 and thanks to dietary changes, he is off the spectrum. Vaccines are a personal choice and as a mom who has been there, trust yourself and go with your gut.

Stacey - posted on 07/20/2010

I asked my daughters pediatrician about this because so many are saying not to get your kids vaccinated, which i disagree with, and he responded that when that when they compared the children the only similarity they found was that they were all vaccinated at 12months. So that is how they drew the conclusion.

Jennifer - posted on 07/20/2010

As consumers....buyer beware. Currently there is NOT one single study showing a direct link between vaccines and Autism. Now it is being said that parents feeding UNWASHED food (blueberries etc) containing pesticides MAY show a link between Autism. Until otherwise proven....VACCINATE and protect your sweet wee-one.
Jenn

Nancy - posted on 07/20/2010

If your son has been getting his vaccines on time, he doesn't need anything at the 12 mos. visit. That is when they do a CBC & check a lead level (bloodwork to see if he is anemic or if he has any lead exposure). He will get his last 2 sets of vaccines at 15mos. & 18 mos. visits. Take this time to talk with your pediatrician about your concerns. They is no proof that vaccines cause Autism. Only speculation. The diseases that these vaccines prevent can kill an infant or child. Thank God we have a way to prevent these diseases!

Shannon - posted on 07/20/2010

ok, seriously, doctors and nurses are not out to harm our children. its ridiculous that people seem to think this way. they arent going to give children shots that arent safe. if people stop vaccinating their children, then diseases that are on the downrise, or ones that we dont see very often anymore will come around again, and there will be another epidemic. for everyones safety, not just your child's, but other children that yours may come into contact with just get them vaccinated. talk to your doctor or public health nurse, dont just search things on the internet. i know i wont be able to change anyones mind, but honestly, its not a big conspiracy theory, the doctors arent going to harm your babies.

Kate - posted on 07/20/2010

There is no link between autism and vaccines. There was one article ages ago, that mentioned a possible link but even that said it wasn't definite and it has all been disproved since then. So if that is your concern, then don't worry.

Amanda - posted on 07/20/2010

Why do parents think because they don’t take their children out in public "sick" they aren’t infecting others? Most childhood illness, are contagious 2 weeks before any symptoms even show up. Once you know your child is sick, it is to late, you have exposed every person you visited, in the last two weeks. Also that mall, grocery store, and city park you visited with your children, is also exposed. Your unvaccinated child could of killed a infant with a heart issue, or a toddler with an allergy to eggs, also she/he might of taken out an elder who can no longer safely take vaccinations. This is why herd vaccines are necessary, for your safety and your children’s. Like I said before if you haven’t had a vaccine in 5 to 10 years please go get yourself vaccinated as well, vaccines wear off and need booster shots every so often. Keep the general public safe, it is your responsibility.

Jessica - posted on 07/20/2010

Ok, people. This has nothing to do with research. If she is noticing symptoms that she seriously believes is from autism she needs to address this to her doctor. Don't even mention vaccines because the doctor will be on the defense as soon as you do. If you believe they are linked, keep it to yourself.

Maggie - posted on 07/20/2010

Hi Michelle, There is no proof that the vaccines cause Autism. I'm an occupational therapist and I think what is happening is that signs of Autism are showing up around the 12-18 month ages. There have been articles about there being a link to a gene. I recommend getting his shots. He will be immune to many other things that could cause a problem. Hope that helps.

Sharon - posted on 07/20/2010

If you read my post correctly you would see that they would be my children... My son had asthma attacks within two weeks of his vaccines twice.. how many 2 mo olds have asthma?? Not many unless they immune system can not tolerate the vaccine that was given them.. They are my primary concern and when they are sick they do not go out n public. I home school so i do not risk my child infecting or getting infected by another student. This is a personal choice for parents and i don't tell anyone that because i don't they shouldn't it is their choice to make and theirs alone.. I only encourage them to educate and if they do then to make sure they get the lot number for every vaccine their child is given the doctor will give them that...

Linsey - posted on 07/20/2010

I would like to say as the mother of a child who has autism I would say get your child immunised. Both of my children have had there jabs and only my son has autism. This was not caused by immunisations this is a genetical disability anyone with autism was born with autism. Here is another way of looking at it. Would you rather have a child with possible autism or a child that could contract a disease such as measles and end up blind or worse.

Tara - posted on 07/20/2010

I'm a pediatric PT, so I have worked with tons of kids with autism. When I started having my own kids I decided to really follow the autism research so I'd be educated and know what to do with my kids. I find NO reason not to vaccinate, as long as your family has a history of no allergic reactions to vaccines, but plenty of reasons to vaccinate. From my 13 years of work, I can tell you that autism IS genetic in some form. In fact, the newest research is starting to figure out just how. I see so many families with more than 1 child with autism, even though they stopped vaccinating after having the first child done. In many of these families, I can look at the parents and see signs of mild autism in them too. They were probably the kids who floundered in school and were considered "odd" because autism wasn't diagnosed back then.

The one change I HAVE made in my life, that I do think COULD be associated with autism, and other health problems, is what we eat. I really try to cook fresh food and minimize the chemicals we eat from food additives, can linings, etc. There are some kids with autism who improve greatly when they cut out some foods from their diet. AND, as others have pointed out, kids tend to be diagnosed around 1 year old, which is the same time they start eating more table food! Just something to consider.

It's very sad to me that so many parents are scared into not vaccinating because if more and more parents do so, more kids will be dying. In addition, the lack of "herd" immunity will be putting MY kids and others who have been vaccinated at risk of death. What herd immunity does is assume that some vaccines will not take, which leaves those kids at risk of catching the particular disease. (For example, up to 40% of flu vaccines don't work.) Other kids, such as those with cancer, can't be vaccinated for their health. If all, or most of the other kids, are protected, then these kids won't ever come in contact with the disease and will be protected. But, if many kids remain un-vaccinated, then kids with weaker immune systems or who didn't have a good enough resopnse to the vaccine will be exposed to it and could still get the disease and could die. It's a lot to think about, and I'm sure you'll do what you feel is best for your son. Good luck!