Top MMR expert in measles warning

An expert who raised public fears about the MMR jab warned today of a major measles epidemic this winter unless parents stop boycotting the vaccine.

Dr Simon Murch was a member of the team which in 1998 reported a possible link between the triple-jab and autism. He is now convinced there is no evidence of any risk from the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine.

The original study, led by Dr Andrew Wakefield from the Royal Free Hospital, caused many parents to deny their children the vaccine despite assurances that it is safe.

Writing today in The Lancet Dr Murch said there was no longer any uncertainty about MMR.

He said: "There is now unequivocal evidence that MMR is not a risk factor for autism - this statement is not spin or medical conspiracy, but reflects an unprecedented volume of medical study."