Brain Injury Linked to Mercury Vaccine Preservative

Parents and scientists concerned about an increasingly aggressive childhood vaccine schedule haven been given additional credence, according to a study in the journal NeuroToxicology. A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh found that infant macaque monkeys receiving a single Hepatitis B vaccine containing the mercury-based preservative thimerosal experienced delays in developing critical reflexes controlled by the brainstem. The monkeys that did not receive the vaccine developed normally.

In 1991, government vaccine guidelines were expanded to include a Hepatitis B vaccine for infants within the first few days of life, even though the disease is primarily spread sexually or through the use of dirty needles. The introduction of the shot was part of a greatly accelerated vaccine schedule that coincides with a drastic increase in Autism, which now affects one in 100 children in the U.S. Thimerosal was removed from vaccines in 2000 but not recalled from the market and was administered for approximately two more years. It still remains in other vaccines including multi-dose shots for the seasonal flu and H1N1.

The results of the study found:

-    Thirteen newborn monkeys were given a Hepatitis vaccine containing a standardized does of thimerosal adjusted for weight, while four receieved a saline placebo, and three were not given any shots

-    Vaccinated animals exhibited a noticeable delay in the acquisition of survival reflexes such as rooting, snouting and sucking – all critical to survival in the animal world

-    The reflexes are specifically controlled by the brainstem, a crucial part of the brain responsible for automatic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and intestinal activity.

For years, parents of children with autism have lobbied against government health agencies to conduct research comparing the health of vaccinated children to that of unvaccinated children, and to remove the thimerosal compound from all vaccines. Neither request has been met.

National Autism Association board chair, Lori McIlwain, claims, “This study underscores the lack of appropriate government action to ensure the safety of vaccines. Had our government agencies conducted the most basic research on the implications to children’s health from the vaccines they rigorously promote, they could have spared thousands of children the neurological injuries they endure today. It’s shameful.”