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As a pediatrician, I’ve cared for kids fighting measles, disseminated chicken pox, pertussis, meningitis, and pneumonia—diseases we have vaccines for. Heartbreakingly, I’ve even seen children die from vaccine-preventable illnesses, so when misinformation about vaccine pops up, I need to set the record straight. Some naturopaths (who are not the same as board-certified pediatric doctors) have been warning parents about the MMR vaccine, claiming it causes febrile seizures and developmental delays. I think naturopaths can add a useful perspective to this medical landscape, but I have a FULL STOP at when they don’t look at evidence and recommend things that have no causation. 1️⃣ The Febrile Seizure Fear—Let’s Put It in Perspective A febrile seizure from the MMR vaccine is extremely rare (1 in 3,000-4,000 doses). And while no parent wants to see their child have a seizure, here’s what’s important to know: ✅ These seizures are brief, do NOT cause long-term harm or increase the risk of epilepsy. ✅ Any high fever—whether from teething, a viral illness, OR measles itself—can trigger a febrile seizure. Now, let’s flip the script. If your child gets measles? 🔹 1 in 6 children with measles will have a febrile seizure. 🔹 1 in 1,000 will develop encephalitis (brain swelling), which can cause permanent damage or death. 🔹 Measles suppresses the immune system for YEARS, making kids more vulnerable to other deadly infections. 2️⃣ Does MMR Cause Developmental Delays? Nope. This myth comes up over and over again, but the answer hasn’t changed: No reputable study has found any link between the MMR vaccine and developmental regression Bottom Line: Every medical decision carries some risk, but not all risks are equal. The risk of a mild, brief febrile seizure is nothing compared to the life-threatening complications of measles. Parents deserve facts—not fear-mongering. Comm
By Gregory
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From the Pediatrics & Family Care community. 🧸 150K+ pros share on child and family care, including treatments and vaccines.
Posted in Vaccines & Prevention. 💉 Best practices for vaccines, check-ups, and preventive care for kids.
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