I was referred to your web site by a friend and have been greatly impressed with all of the information. Our first little baby is 7 weeks-old, and the medical profession is strongly insisting on immunizing her. The thought of this is making me nervous as I would like to make an informed decision.

Because of concerns that immunizations have played a role in the increased incidence of autism, many parents are understandably anxious and confused about the risks and benefits of having their children immunized. However, the scientific evidence to date hasn’t revealed a clear association between immunization and autism. Although there has been a great deal of controversy over the chemical compound thimerosal (previously used as a preservative in vaccines), vaccine makers in the U.S. haven’t used thimerosal in vaccines since 1999. Against the questionable link between immunizations and autism, parents must weigh the known risks of their children being infected and developing a preventable illness. Previous generations of parents were well aware of the disabling – and sometimes fatal – complications of diseases such as polio, rubella, measles, measles, and diphtheria.

The good news is that as long as the majority of children receive vaccinations, the phenomenon known as “Herd immunity” reduces the risk that those who haven’t been immunized will become infected. In other words, your children will benefit from the immunity developed by others. Speaking personally, my kids have been immunized, and the Chopra Center medical staff has determined that we will take the H1N1 immunization and make it available to all Chopra Center employees. I can’t give you a more definitive answer but trust that you will make the choice that’s best for you and your family.

With love,
David