The Independent: Italian court rules MMR vaccine did trigger autism

[Sgent]

65. There has never been any evidence

that the mercury used in vaccines (Thermisol) has any health risk to humans (unlike ethyl mercury). Hydrogen is a major component of rocket fuel and is highly explosive, except when its combined with oxygen for water....

Next, thermisol has not been in any vaccine for over a decade. That's not a huge issue for the US / Europe (increases vaccine cost by probably 20% or so), but in more rural areas with less refrigeration it can be a major issue (much of Africa, Indian Subcontinent, etc.).

The mitochondiral disorder you mention is correct and did happen -- look up Hanna Polling. Although vaccines in her case were the proximate (immediate) factor in her case, it would have happened at some point anyway unless she lived in a bubble. Any activation of her immune system (common cold, ear infection), would have had the same unfortunate results.

The vaccine court in the US is similar to worker's compensation -- the burden of proof is much lower than in a regular court. All they have to prove is that vaccines were the proximate cause. In a regular court Hanna wouldn't have been entitled to damages since the outcome was inevitable vaccine or not.