Thiomersal and Vaccines in the UK

Main Category: Public Health
Article Date: 31 May 2004 - 20:00 PDT

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There has been recent media coverage of a controversial report claiming a link between autism and thiomersal (a mercury containing preservative) present in some DTP (Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) vaccines.

Key points for parents:

· This study did not cover the vaccines used in the UK

· Two large studies in the UK have found no link between thiomersal in the vaccines used in the UK and a range of neurological conditions.

· A further study of nearly half a million children in Denmark found no link between thiomersal and neurological conditions.

· The authors of the US report have said that their results are not relevant to the UK.

· A range of experts who have examined the US report have found serious problems with the way the research was carried out that make the results invalid.

For further information please see the factsheet Thiomersal and vaccines which addresses the safety of thiomersal in vaccines by looking at the scientific evidence for the safety of thiomersal in vaccines. It also answers parents' questions around the immunisation of their children with thiomersal-containing vaccines.

Thiomersal and Vaccines: Factsheet - pdf