Jail threat for MMR refusniks
BBC NEWS Thursday, 14 February, 2002, 

A US city has introduced an initiative to force parents to vaccinate their children with the controversial MMR vaccine or go to jail. Children in Washington DC who have not been vaccinated are barred from attending school, while their parents face a fine or a short jail sentence. 

The get-tough policy has led to very high uptake levels of the vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella. 

All but a few hundred children are not up to date. 

In stark contrast, continuing public fears about the safety of MMR have seen immunisation rates dip sharply in the UK - leading to concerns about a re-emergence of disease. 

The vaccine has been linked to an increased risk of autism and bowel disorders. However, the medical establishment is adamant that it is safe. 

Dr Michael Richardson defended his tough policy.

Go To: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/health/newsid_1820000/1820928.stm