Exactly what is Thimerosal?
Thimerosal is a mercury based preservative that has been used in the US for over 20 years in vaccines to prevent the growth of certain germs, bacteria and fungi that can contaminate them.
Why are preservatives used in vaccines?
For over 70 years we have had preservatives included in most of our vaccines to prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria that could make the vaccines in multi-dose vials (vials containing more than 1 dose) unsafe. Germs in any vaccine can cause serious infections, and in some cases even death.
Do the 2010-2011 Seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccines contain thimerosal?
There are several versions of the seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccines that have FDA approval. All the multi dose vials obtain thimerosal to prevent future contamination once the vial is open.The single dose units are made without the thimerosal preservative as they are intended to be opened and used only once.
Is thimerosal being used in other vaccines?
Since 2001 no new vaccine licensed by the FDA for use in children has contained thimerosal. All vaccines that have been recommended by the CDC for children under 6 years of age, have been thimerosal free.
How safe is thimerosal in vaccines?
Data from several studies on the dangers of thimerosal have shown that low doses of thimerosal do not cause any harm. The only side effects caused are redness and swelling at the injection site. The FDA, CDC and NIH ( National Institutes of Health) have published extensive research on thimerosal and have found it to be a safe product for use in vaccines.
Is thimerosal linked to autism?
Despite the media hype about this association, numerous studies have found no association between thimerosal and autism. Since 2001, the FDA has banned the use of thimerosal in any vaccines given to children below the ages of 6 years.
