HPA: Study adds to evidence

The most comprehensive study on the MMR vaccine and autism adds to the "overwhelming body of evidence" that the vaccine is safe, according to Dr David Brown from the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

In 1998 a study linked immunisation against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) with an increased risk of autism, but its claims have since been disputed.

Ten years later, a study from researchers at Guy's hospital, the HPA and Manchester University is said to be the third and largest report to fail to find "any association" between the MMR vaccine and autism.

"The study found no evidence linking MMR to autistic spectrum disorder and the paper adds to the overwhelming body of evidence from around the world supporting the use of MMR," said Dr Brown.

"Public confidence in the MMR vaccine continues to remain high as the uptake for those receiving their first dose has stayed stable. However, it is also important to remember that children should complete their full course of MMR vaccine or optimum protection."