iowa phasing out thimerosal

a move in the right direction, but why wait until 2008?

Vaccine additive banned in Iowa
By Rachelle Treiber
...

Earlier this year, the state became the first in the nation to ban the use of preservatives in childhood vaccines.

In 1999, when it was discovered that immunized children had accidentally been exposed to mercury levels well over federal limits, the American Academy of Pediatrics called for thimerosal to be removed from vaccines as a precaution.

It was eliminated from nearly all vaccines except the one used for the flu.

Since the Iowa ban went in place during January, California has followed suit and more than 30 other states have similar bans under consideration. Illinois is among them.

In August, Gov. Rod Blagojevich approved the Mercury-Free Vaccine Act. As of next year, the percentage of mercury used in vaccines will be limited. As of 2008, no Illinois resident will be vaccinated with a product containing mercury.
...