McManus wrong; science is clear

We read with dismay the quote from Patricia McManus stating the science is still out on the connection between childhood vaccinations and autism (“‘Science is still out’onautism, vaccine link, new health chief says,’ ” Feb. 10).

Millions of dollars have been spent looking for a connection, and to date no credible evidence exists that vaccines cause or contribute to the development of autism in toddlers.

For the chief public health official in Milwaukee to suggest that it is unclear whether vaccines cause autism creates unnecessary doubt and uncertainty in the public’s mind regarding both the cause of autism and the need for children to be vaccinated. We encourage McManus to make a clear public statement that there is no scientific evidence that vaccines cause autism and that as the chief public health official in Milwaukee County, she encourages parents to make sure that all children receive their vaccinations to combat childhood illness and disease.

Research dollars are limited, and as advocates, we would prefer to see resources go to research that improves the quality of life for those with autism living in our communities, rather than having more dollars spent on proving yet again that vaccines do not cause autism.

Autism Society affiliates exist throughout the state of Wisconsin to provide help, hope and support for individuals with autism and their families. In the greater Milwaukee area, the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin provides parent training, support groups, and a help line for those seeking information (www.assew.org). For families who are concerned about their child’s development and suspect autism, another great resource is the CDC autism page, found at CDC.gov/autism.

Emily Levine Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin

Wauwatosa Kirsten Cooper Autism Society of Wisconsin

Menasha Jackie Moen Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin

Madison