The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) vaccine advisory committee has recommended against flu vaccines containing the preservative thimerosal. The decision comes after a heated debate, with some members arguing that removing thimerosal could lead to reduced access to vaccines and fuel skepticism.
Most flu vaccines currently used in the United States contain little to no thimerosal, which is a mercury-based preservative. However, low doses of thimerosal have been shown to cause minor reactions at the injection site, such as redness or swelling. There is also evidence that exposure to thimerosal-containing vaccines and immunoglobulins during prenatal or infant stages does not increase the risk for autism spectrum disorder.
Despite this evidence, some vaccine skeptics claim that thimerosal is toxic to brain tissue and may cause autism. A recent presentation by a former president of Children’s Health Defense, a group chaired by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., fueled these claims. However, other committee members disputed this assertion, stating there is no scientific evidence to support the claim.
The ACIP voted 5-1 in favor of recommending against flu vaccines containing thimerosal. One member abstained from both votes, while another member expressed concerns about the removal of thimerosal, citing increased costs and reduced access to vaccines worldwide.
Medical groups have voiced concern that reducing or eliminating thimerosal could lead to fewer people getting vaccinated, fueling further distrust of vaccines. The CDC had previously reviewed evidence on thimerosal but later removed a report showing no safety risks due to public pressure.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/cdc-vaccine-advisory-committee-recommends-flu-vaccines-thimerosal/story?id=123224218