The question about whether or not autism is linked to childhood vaccinations still abounds in the parenting community. Regardless of the fact that recent studies show that vaccines aren’t directly responsible for autism, the reality is that a negative association with childhood vaccines is present in the minds of many parents. Whether or not this fear is accurate or not, it will take a long time and a lot of scientific proof before many parents will view vaccines less suspiciously.
Regardless of the autism link, there is a new reason to be aware of a potential problem with vaccines, but this time it isn’t the vaccine – it’s a common environmental chemical that may lessen the vaccine effectiveness.
A new study shows that children with high levels of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) get less protection from vaccinations. Commonly used to repel stains, grease and water for products such as stain-resistant fabrics and carpeting, non-stick cookware, rain clothing and boots and even fast-food packaging material, PFCs are everywhere. The study shows that children with higher PFC levels have lower levels of antibodies following routine childhood vaccinations. Antibodies are the body’s natural response to vaccines (as well as illnesses) and high antibody levels correspond to a higher level of protection against the specific disease associated with the vaccine.
Experts encourage parents to speak with their family doctor and ask questions about the possible link between PFCs and vaccinations, as well as any other questions parents might have about vaccines.
I personally understand why parents are fearful. Autism is a terrible, saddening, scary disorder and there is much that remains to be learned about its origins and treatment. But I think in this case, we’re worried about the wrong thing. The chemicals present in many materials that we touch, wear and even eat from may be a major problem when it comes to our kids getting effective vaccines. Perhaps we should start focusing less on the chemicals in the vaccinations and more on the chemicals in our everyday lives.