Thimerosal

The idea that there is mercury in vaccines causing harm to children continues to be brought up by “vaccine hesitant” groups, despite the fact that thimerosal (an ethylmercury-based preservative) was removed from all childhood vaccines in the U.S. – with the exception of multi-dose flu vials – in the early 2000s. Below are a number of resources on this issue. Please visit our topic areas on Aluminum, Formaldehyde and Vaccine Ingredients – General for more information on other ingredients in vaccines.

• Scientific Studies on Thimerosal and Autism
  Vaccinate Your Family compiled a list of scientific studies on the topic of thimerosal in vaccines and autism.
• “Thimerosal: What You Should Know” Q&A Handout (English)
  The Vaccine Education Center at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia created this handout.
• “Thimerosal: What You Should Know” Q&A Handout (Spanish)
  The Vaccine Education Center at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia created this handout.

International Efforts to Ban Thimerosal in Vaccines

• “Ban on Thimerosal in Draft Treaty on Mercury: Why the AAP’s Position in 2012 Is So Important”
  Pediatrics
• “Global Vaccination Recommendations and Thimerosal”
  Pediatrics