Uptake rates for the combined measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine have been 
below the required 95% in the UK since a retracted and discredited article 
linking the MMR vaccine with autism and inflammatory bowel disease was released 
in 1998. This study undertook semi-structured telephone interviews among parents 
or carers of 47 unvaccinated measles cases who were aged between 13 months and 9 
years, during a large measles outbreak in Merseyside. Results showed that 
concerns over the specific links with autism remain an important cause of 
refusal to vaccinate, with over half of respondents stating this as a reason. A 
quarter stated child illness during scheduled vaccination time, while other 
reasons included general safety concerns and access issues. Over half of 
respondents felt that more information or a discussion with a health 
professional would help the decision-making process, while a third stated 
improved access. There was clear support for vaccination among respondents when 
asked about current opinions regarding MMR vaccine. The findings support the 
hypothesis that safety concerns remain a major barrier to MMR vaccination, and 
also support previous evidence that experience of measles is an important 
determinant in the decision to vaccinate.