Thimerosal Dangers

Thimerosal is an ingredient that has been used in many vaccines as a preservative since the 1930s. Thimerosal contains a form of mercury known as ethylmercury, which is related to methylmercury, a form of mercury that is highly toxic to unborn children, premature babies, and young children. While there is not much data on the effects of ethylmercury, some experts have concerns that the thimerosal in vaccines may be harmful to children.

Mercury Poisoning

People who are exposed to mercury at levels above limits set by federal agencies such as the FDA and the EPA run the risk of mercury poisoning. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Difficulty walking or speaking
• Tremors
• Attention deficit
• Brain, lung, or kidney damage
• Coma

Thimerosal Recall

There has been concern that mercury poisoning in young children is a direct cause of autism. These concerns are based on the similarities between the symptoms of mercury poisoning and autism. As a result, there was speculation that the thimerosal in vaccines may be connected to autism; however, an Institutes of Medicine report failed to substantiate these claims. Nevertheless, the Public Health Service agencies, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the vaccine manufacturers agreed that thimerosal should be eliminated from all pediatric vaccines, and the amount of thimerosal reduced in other vaccines.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by thimerosal, contact a defective drug attorney for an evaluation of your possible case.