ANKMJ
Ankyra Medical Journal

Ankyra Medical Journal (AnkMJ), formerly known as the Journal of Translational and Practical Medicine, regularly publishes international quality issues in the field of Medicine in the light of current information.

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Concerns about vaccines: ingredients and side effects
Abstract
Vaccines are among the most effective public health interventions; however, concerns regarding their components and potential adverse effects continue to contribute to vaccine hesitancy. This narrative review aims to critically evaluate the current scientific evidence regarding vaccine ingredients and their alleged side effects. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases. Studies published in English and Turkish over the past 15 years were prioritized, with emphasis on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and reports from international health authorities (WHO, CDC, EMA). High-quality evidence indicates that commonly discussed vaccine components such as thimerosal, aluminum adjuvants, and formaldehyde are present in quantities that are not associated with clinically significant harm. No causal relationship has been demonstrated between vaccines and autism spectrum disorder. Some hypotheses, such as autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA), remain controversial and lack robust clinical validation. The current body of scientific evidence strongly supports the safety of vaccines. Misinterpretation of low-quality studies and misinformation contribute significantly to public concerns. Strengthening evidence-based communication is essential to reduce vaccine hesitancy.

Keywords : Vaccines, immunization, side effects

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Article available in :
Volume 5, Issue 4, 2026
Page : 115-118
https://doi.org/10.51271/ANKMJ-0079
Article Information
Received : 11 Haz 2026
Accepted : 20 Tem 2026
Published : 06 Eki 2026
Corresponding Author :

Hilal Aksoy: Department Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkiye

[email protected]
Citation : Aksoy H. Concerns about vaccines: ingredients and side effects. Ank Med J. 2026;5(4):115-118. doi: 10.51271/ANKMJ-0079

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