Recently, a CDC whistleblower released highly controversial information that has sent the autism community and the public into an uproar. The information has not yet been verified but already the public responsive is explosive.
A well respected researcher working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with Dr. Brian Hooker of the Focus Autism Foundation, allege that the CDC has manipulated vaccine research data in an attempt to cover up the MMR and autism link.
The data that has allegedly been covered up or manipulated demonstrates a higher incidence of autism in African-American boys who received their MMR vaccine according to the CDC schedule. The study in question was published in the journal Pediatrics. The study examined children with and without autism by examining the age at which they first received the MMR shot. It used a population based study in Atlanta.
Dr. Hooker states that he acquired documents relating to the supposed cover up via a Congressional request from the chairman of the House Oversight and Government Record Committee. Hooker, citing the two sources, has accused the CDC of widespread manipulation of scientific data concerning the safety of the MMR vaccine.
According to the whistleblower team, the study showed that there was actually a 3.36 fold increase risk for autism in African-American boys who received the MMR vaccination before the age of 36 months. This flies in the face of the studies presented findings that no risk exists in obtaining the vaccine on time, and the CDC’s general public message that the MMR vaccine is not linked in any way to autism.
The whistleblower and Dr. Hooker claim the CDC knew of the risks that accompanied the shot as early as 2003, prior even to the study’s publication. The whistleblower initially remained anonymous but has since identified himself as Dr. William Thompson who does work at the CDC and is considered a well respected professional.
Thus far, the CDC has not responded to allegations, nor has a statement been issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Families of children with autism have taken to social media sites demanding answers and the infliction of punishment, while others have sharply refuted the claims of the whistleblower.
While the ultimate result of this whistleblower’s claims remain to be seen, we can glean from this case the difficulties inherent in being a whistleblower. The doctor that has brought this information to light no doubt risks his career and standing in the medical community. His claims have already gathered much media attention and will continue to do so.
Though being a whistleblower is undoubtedly difficult, it is of the utmost importance to the American public as a whole. Without some of the brave whistleblowers of the past, much fraud would never have been uncovered and dismantled. Whistleblowers are vital, and with the assistance of an experienced whistleblower attorney, they too can be protected in bringing their action.
Barrett Law PLLC: Mississippi Attorneys Assisting Brave Whistleblowers
The experienced Mississippi Qui Tam Lawyers at Barrett Law PLLC understand that being a whistleblower is never easy. It involves speaking out and often facing much criticism, along with the potential for retaliation. The whistleblower attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC respect the decision of whistleblowers to put their livelihoods on the line and will do all we can to see that your case is successful and you experience none of the potential negative repercussions that can accompany whistleblowing. At Barrett Law PLLC, we offer a free consultation to all new clients and operate on a contingency fee basis. For representation of unmatched excellence, call Barrett Law PLLC today at 1 (800) 707-9577 to schedule your free consultation.