How is this study different than previous studies on thimerosal and autism?
To date, there have been several published studies on the safety of thimerosal in vaccines. The data shows that the low doses of thimerosal in vaccines do not cause harm, although it may be associated with minor reactions, such as redness and swelling at the injection site, and rare allergic reactions. This new study adds more comprehensive data to the existing science on the safety of thimerosal. It is the most thorough to date because it is the first time CDC has gathered and examined maternal data and the first time CDC has examined ASD along with the various autism subtypes. The study included consultation by external experts and representatives of autism advocacy groups, used state-of-the art in-person evaluations administered by research staff trained by leading autism experts, and was based on well-documented data on exposure to thimerosal-containing products. The study controlled for many factors that could influence the risk of autism or receipt of immunizations. Moreover, the
