Some researchers say that because we are exposed to more sources of mercury than ever before (like tainted fish, dental fillings, to name a couple), any added source of mercury multiplies the problems.

For drug companies, the motivation is money. Thimerosal enables the pharmaceutical industry to package vaccines in vials that contain multiple doses, which require additional protection because they are more easily contaminated by multiple needle entries. The larger vials cost half as much to produce as smaller, single-dose vials. It is not beyond imagination that drug companies would continue to sell vaccines found to be harmful ? they don?t want to lose money. It is not beyond imagination that the US would protect the drug companies.

What is NOT imaginable is why our health department would knowingly allow our children to be injected with these vaccines when there are alternatives. Although reliable numbers are hard to come by, autistic disorders appear to be soaring in India, Argentina, Nicaragua and other developing countries that are now using thimerosal-laced vaccines.

Other countries, like the UK, Canada, Russia, have switched to vaccines that do not contain these mercury-based preservatives. Last year, Iowa became the first state to ban mercury in vaccines, followed by California. Similar bans are now under consideration in 32 other states. We must do the same thing.

Our own experience has shown us that this government is willing to cover up the possible danger of mercury in the river fish rather than scaring away tourists. That is a ridiculous excuse. Tourists are here for a few days or a few hours; our health officers are mandated to protect the citizens of Belize, not the possible economic interests of a few. Many tourists come from places where they are given health advisories concerning mercury in fish and ?safe? levels of fish to consume. The Department for Belizeans? Health should be doing this article and assuring us that we will be informed as to the best way to protect our children.

We have to push to ban vaccines with toxic preservatives from coming into Belize. After all, children get vaccinations to make them healthier. The bottom line is not profit and greed, but the care and concern and health of our children ? who are the future of Belize.

Candy and George Gonzalez,

As Concerned Parents and Grandparents, Cayo

Sent to Ministry of Health, BAHA and PAHO