After the controversy which falsely linked the MMR vaccine to autism, some parents asked why the vaccines are given together an not separately. They speculated that the three vaccines together overwhelm the immune system and somehow damage the brain. There is no evidence at all that this happens but there are some good reasons why the vaccines are given altogether.
Using separate vaccines would make it more likely that some children would miss out on appointments – having to remember three separate appoints when their child is 13 months and another three when their child is 3-5 is more difficult than remembering one appointment at each age. The three vaccines given spacing in between would cause delays in the later vaccinations, making it more likely the infectious diseases could re-emerge.
There is also the problem that the poor child would have to have 6 injections rather than two. Children do not like vaccinations, and it seems to make sense to lessen their distress where possible.
Using separate vaccines would make it more likely that some children would miss out on appointments – having to remember three separate appoints when their child is 13 months and another three when their child is 3-5 is more difficult than remembering one appointment at each age. The three vaccines given spacing in between would cause delays in the later vaccinations, making it more likely the infectious diseases could re-emerge.
There is also the problem that the poor child would have to have 6 injections rather than two. Children do not like vaccinations, and it seems to make sense to lessen their distress where possible.
