Editorial: Encouraging news on childhood shots

Tuesday, April 24, 2001 | 9:06 a.m.

In 1998 English researchers reported that there might be a link between the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine and an increase in autism, a well-publicized finding that alarmed many parents. But a review released Monday by the Institute of Medicine has found no general connection between these childhood immunization shots and autism.

Scientists should investigate thoroughly the possibility of dangerous links posed by immunizations, but this episode also should serve as a cautionary tale: Too often the media overstate the potential risks of immunizations while ignoring the benefits. For instance, there were just 100 cases of measles in the United States in 1999, due mainly to government-mandated immunizations. Yet because the vaccine isn't used in many parts of the globe, measles still accounted for a million childhood deaths worldwide during 2000. It is hoped that the latest review reassures skittish parents about the need for childhood immunizations.