Some vaccines are still unsafe

To the editor:

I received a call from Gov. Matt Blunt's office inviting me to the signing of Senate Bill 74 which limits mercury in vaccines. I advocated for mercury to be removed from vaccines after watching my son's life forever change when he received mercury at a level 55 times over the safe limit. I know firsthand the devastation this neurotoxin can bring.

Blunt's office demanded the original bill's age restrictions and informed-consent clause be removed in order to receive his signature. What about the thousands of Missouri children who will get flu shots each fall? They will still be receiving mercury at a rate of 10 to 15 times over the safe limit? Who is more important to protect? An industry that wants to save a few dollars profit per shot? A manufacturing company located in this state currently named as a defendant in pending litigation?

I think we all want safe vaccines for our state, not unnecessarily toxic ones. Until legislation protecting all Missourians from the second most toxic element known is accepted by this administration, I respectfully decline the offer to stand with the governor. I cannot support such changes knowing that others, especially our children, will continue to receive this poison at unsafe rates -- all so an industry with deep political contribution pockets can save face and a few dollars.

KEITH MUELLER, Kansas City