Nearly 90% of Americans say MMR vaccine benefits outweigh risks

Despite a growing number of people refusing measles, mumps, and rubella vaccinations for their children, a new poll finds a majority think that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh any risks. The vaccine, which has been proven to be safe and effective, can have side effects for some including fever, mild rash, and arm soreness. Here’s more: 

• Overall trends: 88% of the more than 1,800 survey respondents said the MMR vaccine’s benefits are more important than its risks. Nearly 70% believe that the risk of side effects are low or very low. 
• Demographic trends: Compared to white adults, black and Hispanic adults were less likely to believe the vaccine was more beneficial than risky. Older adults, those with high incomes, or high education levels were more likely to weigh the preventive benefits higher than side effects. 
• Mandates: 82% of adults said healthy children should be vaccinated in order to attend public schools. More Democratic and left-leaning respondents agreed with such mandates than Republican or right-leaning adults.