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Autism Scare—Should We Vaccinate? |
PROS: According
to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), certain vaccinations are highly
encouraged in order to keep our children protected from serious illness,
widespread outbreaks and possible death. Just to name a few, there have been
comebacks of long gone diseases such as whooping cough, measles and even the
pertussis epidemic in Japan, which have caused deaths and serious illness to
children all over the world. The whole idea is to “Keep eliminating until
disease is eliminated”. Some
organizations have claimed that genetics are to blame for autism and there is
no link between it and immunizations.
CONS: Over the
past several years, serious debate has been sparked over the fact that certain
ingredients such as thimerosal and mercury, which is included in the vaccines,
DT, Tetanus Toxoid, Influenza 2009, and H1N1 and Meningococcal can cause autism
in children. The CDC, states there has been at least 4700 court cases still
pending with the Federal Courts over the past several years, claiming that
autism in their children was caused by the above mentioned vaccinations. By
disbanding our children from immunizations, it opens them up to becoming more
easily susceptible to serious disease outbreaks, especially for ones whose
immune systems are already compromised.
Skeptical individuals debate both sides of the
argument--wondering if vaccinations really keep their children safe and out of
the path of serious illness? What studies have been done to prove vaccines
really work effectively? They might ask the questions, “How much of a chance do
I want to take to possibly keep my child disease free?” “If I choose to
immunize, they may then develop autism?” “And if I don’t, they could catch the
measles or something worse?”
As for my beliefs, I take a more philosophic approach. I
feel that through an alternate healthy lifestyle, one designed of wholesome
organic foods and exercise; we can keep our bodies disease free. My belief is
that we have the ability to heal our own bodies. Although, I have no children,
I would choose not to vaccinate, and do my best to adhere them to a healthy
diet and lifestyle as much as possible and take my chances with a strong faith
knowing that I’m doing everything I can to protect them.
The ultimate question, we need to ask ourselves is, “What is
the best choice for my child?” Research the topic to the best of your
ability, look at all sides of the issue, and then agree with yourself, if it’s
one you can accept to live with. Also knowing that either way you
decide, something can always go wrong. It’s a tough crossroads to arrive at, but
a final destination most people must decide on.
References:
“Drug Test, ” Daniel
Schulman, Columbia Journalism Review; Nov/Dec 2005; 44, 4; SIRS pg. 44
Retrieved from: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/default.htm
Retrieved from: http://www.autismone.org
Retrieved from: http://www.uscfc.uscourts.gov/omnibus-autism-proceeding
Thank you very much--appreciate it!
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