Thimerosal
Thimerosal is an ingredient that has been used in many vaccines as a preservative since the 1930s. Thimerosal contains a form of mercury known as ethylmercury, which is related to methylmercury - a form of mercury that is highly toxic to unborn children, premature babies, and young children. While there is not much data on the effects of ethylmercury, some experts have concerns that the thimerosal in vaccines may be harmful to children.
Mercury Poisoning
People who are exposed to mercury at levels above limits set by federal agencies such as the FDA and the EPA run the risk of mercury poisoning. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Difficulty walking or speaking
- Tremors
- Attention deficit
- Brain, lung, or kidney damage
- Coma
Thimerosal Recall
There has been concern that mercury poisoning in young children is a direct cause of autism in young children. These concerns are based on the fact that the symptoms of mercury poisoning and autism are very similar. As a result, many people became concerned that the thimerosal in vaccines may be a cause of autism. But an Institutes of Medicine report failed to substantiate these claims. Enough concern was raised, however, to lead the Public Health Service agencies, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the vaccine manufacturers to eliminate thimerosal from all pediatric vaccines and reduce the amount in other vaccines.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by thimerosal, you may want to contact a defective drug attorney for more information specific to your case.
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