Shots in the Dark

Since they were introduced in the early 20th century, vaccines have been a tremendous medical and scientific success. Today perceived as a necessity, they are so familiar to us that their potential risks are rarely mentioned. However, the stakes are significant.

Based on recommendations of health agencies, North American children receive about 48 doses of vaccines before the age of six—double the amount prescribed 25 years ago. Following the onset of side effects in some people, the safety of large-scale vaccination policies is being questioned.