Andrew Wakefield

Andrew Wakefield and his colleagues were researchers who claimed the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine could cause autism in young children. According to the National Center of Biotechnology Information, this claim was based on a study performed on 12 children that were chosen from a pediatric clinic. This claim caused the rate of MMR vaccinations to drop significantly due to the wide publicity of this research paper. However, many studies were immediately performed afterward that contradicted this claim, which also brought to light the many flaws of Wakefield’s study. Many studies also questioned his claim due to the fact that receiving an MMR vaccination and the development of autism happen early in life.

Furthermore, many ethical violations as well as deliberate research fraud were revealed over time. The Wakefield paper was completely retracted after several elements of the paper were discovered to be incorrect. For example, Wakefield and his colleagues falsified facts in their study by picking and choosing evidence that would support their claim. They reported that their sample was consecutively chosen, however, it was in fact selective and specific children were selected that would best support their claim. Also, Wakefield was also held guilty of ethical violations for performing invasive testing on the children without the proper ethical measures and clearance. In the end, they were found guilty of deliberate fraud and that their research was performed for financial gain rather than scientific discovery.

Despite all the confusion caused by this false claim, the MMR vaccine is a very effective way to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella. The CDC recommend children to receive two doses of this vaccine with the first dose being after the first birthday and the second between ages four and six. The MMR vaccine is about 97% effective against measles and rubella and 88% effective against mumps after two doses. Even if infected with these conditions, the vaccine can still provide some protection and have milder symptoms than without the vaccine. Overall, the occurrence of measles, mumps, and rubella has significantly been reduced around the world as a result of the MMR vaccine and does not cause autism.