Letter: Rubella success

Sir: Ian Burrell ("Films of babies to be used in evidence over vaccine damage", 19 January) raises important concerns about the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and we strongly endorse the need for further research.

However, it should be emphasised that the rubella vaccine has been highly successful in reducing the incidence of rubella in pregnant women, and its devastating effects on unborn children.

Between 1971 and 1975, at least 360 children were born with severe disabilities from Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS). Many were born both deaf and blind. Between 1990 and 1995 fewer than 25 babies were born with CRS, entirely owing to the introduction of the MMR programme.

MALCOLM MATTHEWS

Director of National Policy and Services

Sense, the National Deafblind and Rubella Association

London N4