Scientists say they have strong evidence that the MMR vaccination is not linked to a rise in autism. Researchers looked at the incidence of autism in a Japanese city before and after the withdrawal of the measles, mumps and rubella jab in 1993. New Scientist reports autism rates kept rising after MMR was withdrawn. Michael Rutter, of the Institute of Psychiatry, who worked on the study, said it “rubbished” the link between MMR and a general rise in autism. However, autism campaigners said they would want to see more conclusive proof from UK-based studies before being convinced the jab was safe.
