The rights and wrongs of measles vaccination

Abstract

There is controversy regarding immunization. This paper concentrates on measles although the evidence is more broadly based. Both mortality and morbidity figures strongly suggest that despite a few casualties the campaign has saved many lives and much suffering, even though its goal of eliminating measles has not yet been achieved. Unfortunately the immunizing effect of the vaccine has a shorter duration of action than the disease itself, and this has led to outbreaks of measles amongst older age-groups immunized as babies. Morbidity and mortality are higher when measles is contracted at older ages. A revaccination campaign is under way. Side effects from revaccination are less frequent than with primary vaccination.

The incidence of a variety of chronic diseases, some of which are related to the immune system, has risen concurrently with the various immunization programmes. Opponents fear that the two phenomena are connected, and that by proceeding with immunization we are fundamentally damaging the race. While the evidence for such a connection is weak, it cannot entirely be dismissed as it is equally hard to disprove. We should remain alert to the possibility and research it honestly while continuing with the campaign, since abandoning it would undoubtedly result in much more loss of life and permanent disability.