Exploring the MMR-Autism Link

The MMR vaccine is a popular shot that protects children against measles, mumps, and rubella. Autism is a spectrum of developmental disorders that is proving to be more and more common than most people originally thought. So, with the seemingly hand-in-hand increase in MMR shots given and autism cases reported, some people have suggested that the MMR vaccine may cause autism.

MMR Vaccine Basics

The MMR vaccine combination became available in 1971, after almost ten years of a shot that protected only against measles. In 2005, doctors began administering the MMRV immunization, which also protected against varicella, or chicken pox.

The MMR/MMRV vaccine is a two-shot series that is first given to a child between 12-15 months of age. The second dosage is administered when the child is 4-6 years old. When the two doses are given effectively, a child is 99% protected against measles.

Understanding Autism

Autism is a neurological disorder that disrupts a person's “people skills.” This means that communication and relating to other people is impaired in autistic children. Symptoms of autism often appear by the time a child turns 3 years old, and can include:

• Non-communication, ranging from delayed speech development to not talking at all, even though the child may not be deaf
• Repetitive behavior and interests, such as rocking back and forth, extreme focus on particular objects, and inability to adapt to change
• Lack of empathy and interest in other people

Are Autism and MMR/MMRV Connected?

Despite widespread rumors to the contrary, medical studies have not found a definitive connection between the MMR/MMRV vaccine and autism. Although autism might arise right after the second MMR/MMRV shot, this is also about the time when social development skills should be most visible.

Therefore, it is easy to see why some people might think they are connected. However, it is important to think about the multiple diseases from which the immunization protects your child.

Contact Us

If you or someone you know has questions about the MMR/MMRV and autism connection, or needs any other information about Texas Health Insurance, please contact Option 1 Health Insurance today.