"We know that when we give large numbers of vaccines to large numbers of children, sometimes bad things will happen shortly after they are vaccinated. ... It is very difficult to convince them, even with good epidemiologic data, that this is coincidence rather than a cause and effect relationship," Dr. Reingold said, adding, "So we do need very good programs in place to monitor adverse events, and we need to be in a position to study those events and determine whether or not there is a cause and effect relationship."
In the past, many such concerns about cause and effect have been debunked by solid, careful epidemiological study, he noted.
"But nevertheless, we need to be in a position to study these allegations and refute them with good data. ... Building and retaining trust in vaccines and their safety is critical for ensuring continued public support and acceptance of immunizations," he said.
Dr. Reingold said he had no disclosures to report.