24/05/2010

MMR Doctor 'Struck Off Register'

The doctor at the centre of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine row has been struck off the medical register.

Dr Andrew Wakefield was found guilty by the General Medical Council (GMC) of serious professional misconduct over the way he carried out his research.

Published in 1998, Dr Wakefields findings claimed the MMR vaccine was linked to bowel disease and autism.

At a hearing in London the GMC said that Dr Wakefield had acted unethically and carried out research which was "misleading" and "dishonest".

Many parents are now being to urged to give the vaccine to their children.

Dr Wakefield has 28 days to appeal or his name will be erased from the medical register.

(CD/BMcC)

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