WHOM should you believe when experts disagree?

The debate surrounding the safety of the triple measles, mumps and rubella vaccination has yet to be resolved and parents are left in a quandary.

Concerns were first raised by consultant gastroenterologist Dr Andrew Wakefield, who suggested a link between the triple vaccine and bowel disease and autism. And although the medical establishment has been quick to reassure the public, many parents are not convinced that it is safe.

Irene Weare's daughter, Mary, now 12, was a bright, cheerful toddler. But shortly after having her MMR jab, she developed severe epilepsy and learning difficulties.

Mrs Weare said: "I have always felt that the MMR jab could have been responsible for my daughter's epilepsy. It just seems too much of a coincidence that three months after having the jab she suffered her first epileptic fit."

Mrs Weare has consulted numerous doctors, but none put her mind at rest.

"I always get the same answer: they neither confirm or deny that it could be the cause. I am not an expert and I have no way of knowing if this vaccine was in some way responsible for my daughter's illness.

"I know that there are claims that the MMR vaccine has been linked to autism and bowel disease in children. I would like to know if other parents have similar experiences."

Mary Kemp-Weare, a pupil at Uplands Special School, now suffers about 15 epileptic seizures a week and needs constant attention.

The MMR vaccination, introduced in 1989, is given to children at 15 months and again between the ages of three and five. Opponents of the vaccine believe it is the interaction of the three vaccines that triggers the alleged side-effects.

In Swindon, levels have dropped from 85 per cent uptake to as low as 75 per cent far below the World Health Organisation's recommendation that at least 90 per cent must be vaccinated to protect the whole population.

The Government is clear about the need for children to be immunised with the MMR vaccine. If a child is not immunised, they will be at risk of catching the disease and will rely on others immunising their children to avoid infection.

If more people choose not to immunise, more children will be susceptible and outbreaks of disease will occur.