Reports of suspected connection between MMR(measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine and bowel disorders and autism has created concern over the safety of the vaccine, despite the assurances extended by government experts and all the Royal Colleges .
An inquiry is to be initiated by the Department of Health, and tests are to be carried out on children whose families claim were affected by the vaccine. The offer comes after a new study found measles virus in the guts of 85 per cent of children with a regressive form of autism. It is hoped that the inquiry will allow government scientists to explain the role of the vaccine virus in the children's bodies and whether it has affected their health.For almost a decade, parents have campaigned for an inquiry into the matter. Families who have campaigned for an inquiry welcomed the announcement.
An all time high in the incidence of measles has been reported due to loss of confidence in the MMR vaccine. More than 2,000 families claim that their children suffered a regressive form of autism, and, in a few cases, severe bowel problems, after being vaccinated.
Tests conducted on half a dozen British children with severe bowel disorders, autism and, in one case, severe epilepsy , found traces of the MMR strain of measles in their guts, spinal fluid and in the brain of a child.
Most of the cases have been dropped after the withdrawal of legal aid, but the findings have continued to cause concern among parents.
The Department, however, has not shifted from its stance that MMR is safe. A spokesman said:
