08/14/2026
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, was controversially linked to autism in a 1998 study. This study, based on just 12 children, suggested a connection between the vaccine and autism. However, extensive research since then has found no evidence supporting this claim. Major health organisations like the CDC and WHO affirm the vaccine's safety. The study was later retracted due to ethical issues and data manipulation. Despite the scientific consensus, the controversy caused a decline in vaccination rates, resulting in outbreaks of measles and other diseases. Autism is now understood to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, not vaccines.