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May 3, 2002

U.S. IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Couple Files Lawsuit Over Child's Vaccines"

Associated Press (www.ap.org) (05/03/02)

A couple has filed a lawsuit, in Union County, N.C. Superior Court, against eight vaccine manufacturers and distributors who they claim failed to take appropriate action to prevent harm to children after finding out about potential side effects of childhood vaccines containing thimerosal, a mercury derivative that was used as a vaccine preservative.  Lee and Jill Urwich's son has autism, and his parents blame thimerosal-containing vaccines for his condition.  Federal and state health officials assert that no link has been proven between mercury and autism, and a spokesperson for manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline, which has produced thimerosal-free vaccines since 2000, also noted the incredible benefits of vaccines in preventing disease.  Most drug companies supply mercury-free vaccines, except for the influenza vaccine, and are willing to accept old supplies without extra charges, says Duke University Medical Center pediatrician Samuel Katz.

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