WHO has noted that other scientists have not been able to reproduce the results claimed by Dr Wakefield and his team regarding measles virus in the gut. His published observations regarding the onset of autism following administration of MMR vaccine do not meet the scientific criteria required to suggest that the vaccine is the cause. Other studies not cited by Dr Wakefield find no link with autism or Crohn's disease.

WHO Position

WHO strongly endorses the use of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine on the grounds of its convincing record of safety and efficacy.

The combination vaccine is recommended rather than monovalent presentation when available and the disease burden justifies its use.

There has been no new scientific evidence that would suggest impaired safety of MMR. On the contrary, all results from vaccine trials published reaffirm the high safety and efficacy of MMR vaccine.

Background

Measles is a major killer of children mainly in developing countries, accounting for approximately 875 000 deaths each year. However, recent outbreaks in industrialized countries have highlighted the importance of improving measles immunization coverage throughout the world. Congenital Rubella Syndrome is an important cause of deafness, blindness and mental retardation. It is estimated that more than 100 000 cases of congenital rubella syndrome occur each year worldwide. Mumps is an acute infectious disease. Although the disease is mild, up to 10% of patients can develop aseptic meningitis: a less common but more serious complication is encephalitis, which can result in death or disability.

These three communicable diseases could be easily prevented through immunization.