These products are then subjected to another level of intense scrutiny in order to assure that recommendations about immunization practices and procedures reflect the best available science. Once approved for use, there is a robust system of checks and balances that monitors the safety and efficacy of vaccines. A child's chance of being harmed by an infectious disease like measles or mumps is far greater than any risk of being harmed by the vaccine. These diseases have not been eliminated, only kept at bay through widespread childhood immunization. Measles, for example, can lead to pneumonia or an infection of the brain and can cause death.
Mumps can cause an infection in the lining of the brain and death.
To help inform parents about the benefits and risks of vaccines, the American Academy of Pediatrics has developed brochures that are distributed by pediatricians. Parents should also talk to their pediatrician.