Ummm, Merck

Although the story isn't being reported on by the main news networks, one of the greatest medical scandals of all time is unfolding in "alternative" media sites. Two scientists with Merck have filed a lawsuit against the company alleging that the company knowingly falsified data to make their mumps vaccine appear more effective. Apparently, the original antibody for the mumps portion of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) was taken from the daughter of one of the scientists several decades ago. Over time, this antibody has lost its effectiveness to prevent mumps and may have actually caused mumps cases. As the effectiveness of the vaccine waivered, the scientists claim that Merck altered data and may have even used animal antibodies as proof in testing.

As this scandal unfolds, it may be tagged to Congressmen, Senators, President Obama, or Governor Romney as actions are either taken or avoided in the matter. Merck has already been in the political spotlight recently when Governor Perry was unable to properly explain why he mandated the use of Merck's Gardisal vaccine for all girls in Texas schools.

According to several sources, the victims of the scam may not be able to seek legal action as the vaccine industry is protected from lawsuit by legislation. Merck is also shielded by its donations. The OpenSecrets page on Merck shows that company donated close to two million dollars to political campaigns in 2010 with that amount being split evenly between Democrats and Republicans.The chart on the left shows the political donations from Merck from 1990 to 2012 (onging). The chart on the right shows the split of that money between parties.

The video below is a discussion between Dr Joseph Mercola and Barbara Loe Fisher. Dr Mercola has previously written about the scandal and Mrs Fisher has been a long time advocate of medical accountability, specifically in vaccines.