Key Points

• All vaccines routinely recommended for children 6 years of age and younger in the U.S. are available in formulations that do not contain thimerosal.
• Vaccines that do not contain thimerosal as a preservative are also available for adolescents and adults.
• A robust body of peer-reviewed scientific studies conducted in the U.S. and other countries support the safety of thimerosal-containing vaccines.
• Preservatives prevent microbial growth.
• A preservative is required in multi-dose vials of vaccines.
• The use of thimerosal as a preservative in vaccines has markedly declined due to reformulation and development of new vaccines in single-use presentations.

Table of Contents

• Thimerosal as a Preservative
• Other Preservatives
• Rationale for Preservatives in Vaccines
• FDA Actions Pertaining to Thimerosal in Vaccines
• No Link between Thimerosal in Vaccines and Autism
• Current Status of Thimerosal in Vaccines
• Thimerosal Content of Available FDA-Approved Seasonal Influenza Vaccines
• References
• Bibliography - Notable Studies and Assessments Supporting the Safe Use of Thimerosal in Vaccines