Vaccines, Autoimmunity, and the Changing Nature of Childhood Illness

by Thomas Cowan, Sally Fallon Morell (Foreword)

One doctor’s surprising answer to the epidemic of chronic disease and essential reading for everyone concerned with the health of the next generation "Dr. Cowan intelligently educates us on the complicated and beautiful workings of our immune system [and] charts the clear, concise path to healing, offering a better, healthier life for us, our children, and the planet."―Lindy Woodard, MD, Pediatric Alternatives Over the past fifty years, rates of autoimmunity and chronic disease have exploded. Currently: While some attribute this rise to increased awareness and diagnosis, Thomas Cowan, MD, argues for a direct causal relationship to a corresponding increase in the number of vaccines American children typically receive―approximately 70 vaccine doses by age eighteen. The goal of these vaccines is precisely what we’re now seeing in such abundance among our chronically ill children: the provocation of immune response. Dr. Cowan looks at emerging evidence that certain childhood illnesses are actually protective of disease later in life; examines the role of fever, the gut, and cellular fluid in immune health; argues that vaccination is an ineffective (and harmful) attempt to shortcut a complex immune response; and asserts that the medical establishment has engaged in an authoritarian argument that robs parents of informed consent. His ultimate question, from the point of view of a doctor who has decades of experience treating countless children is: What are we really doing to children when we vaccinate them?

Genres: Health, Nonfiction, Vaccines, Parenting, Medicine, Science, Audiobook

192 pages, Hardcover

Published July 30, 2018

Reviews

[Sara Dahaabović · Rating 2 out of 5]

As someone with an intense family history of autoimmune diseases I was intrigued by this book, I'm only giving it two starts for the fact that the author connected vaccines/chronic illness with the asthma and hygiene hypothesis, which I think was smart of him to do; we have studied that hypothesis and it is mentioned in every book about the pathology of asthma. I also agree that overstimulating the immune system (which he presented by mentioning The Kobe university study in Japan- I still have to check that study) with the scary amounts of vaccines given today is not safe in any way.

But, boy oh boy! Dr. Cowan you lost me when you started talking about genetics in such an uneducated way. I swear to God each time he mentioned genetics, epigenetics or just the word DNA he was either too wrong or someway deceptive!

On page 15 he wrote:
"Some will argue that this means a disease is genetic, but the reality is certainly far more nuanced than that. It would be more accurate to say that a disease is environmental with a genetic trigger or predisposition. framing damage or disease as stemming from an environmental cause, however, would require us to do something about it.

He made it look like doctors or geneticists believe that genetic diseases can only be inherited, but ask any geneticist in the world and they would tell you that most genetic diseases are indeed are a result of a complex interplay between our genes and the environment, and if anything we are trying to understand that link (the only diseases that that applies to is the single gene disorders or as we call them Mendelian disorders, and they're not the majority of genetics disorders).

One other thing that was very irritating to read is the word "I believe", maybe because I'm used to reading scientific papers where no such language will be used. It doesn't matter what any one believes, we follow data and results. I did a quick search on pubmed and he has no published papers (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) so why should we blindly listen to what he"believes in", don't get me wrong he might be onto something, and something big that might save millions of lives, but seriously zero studies on pubmed?

Finally, I liked one particular paragraph in the introduction where Cowan quoted Steiner "The time will come, and it may not be far off, that people will say: It is pathological for people to even think in terms of spirit and soul. ‘Sound’ people will speak of nothing but the body. It will be considered a sign of illness for anyone to arrive at the idea of any such thing as a spirit or a soul."

[Eric · Rating 1 out of 5]

The big problem with Cowan's book is that the claims he makes about vaccines causing autoimmune diseases are not backed up by facts. There is strong evidence that vaccination does NOT cause autism, diabetes, allergies etc. Numerous studies have been done and can easily be found online.

Cowan has authored other books in which (among other things) he alleges that the heart is not a pump, and that cancer is caused by poor structure of "intracellular water". This is profoundly goofy stuff.

Cowan was disciplined by his state medical board in 2017 for improper care of a cancer patient.

Parents should think twice before depending on him for good advice about their children's health.

Update: After declaring that Covid-19 was caused by 5G networks, Cowan surrendered his medical license in 2021 and moved to the Northeast. His latest gig is running a wellness "clinic", which charges up to $250 a consultation, though a small family can get in on the action for $119/month plus a $150 "activation fee". Cowan sells a variety of supplements online, including a "Polyrachis Ant Spagyric Tincture" and spirits of turpentine (ingesting turpentine is one of the latest weird alt med practices to emerge, complementing the drinking of MMS (chlorine dioxide bleach) and consuming one's urine for fantasized health benefits.

[Patricia Romero · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book could not be more timely. The vaccine debate is sometimes a polarizing one. Pitting the Anti-Vaccers against the ones who choose to vaccinate.

Cowan not only looks at the ways childhood disease has changed with the onset of vaccines which are made by companies and pushed by them and the government. Sometimes knowing they are not safe. But when there is big money to be made, we all know how the big Pharms operate.

He offers a different look at the spiritual side as well. He questions the whys and hows. He asks especially why did we have a polio out break between 1916 and 11918? And those answers are extremely interesting.

He speaks to autism and childhood diseases. Some which in the past have contributed to a healthy immune system.

I am torn on this issue. But I believe in the right to choose your child's health plan and belong to a Vaccination PAC here in Oklahoma where we successfully passed a bill that would put that choice into the hands of the parents. And to me that is where it belongs.

[Shannon McGarvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow um, so it’s pretty clear to me that my chronic illnesses are from vaccines, and opioid drug use. I’m really interested in learning more about using naltrexone to heal auto immunity.
He talks about how fevers and sickness actually help the body long term which was really interesting, and how vaccines are literally causing distress to the immune system, and then wondering why chronic/ autoimmune diseases are on the rise. Every parent should read this!

[Isabelle reads a book a day because she has no friends]

During some parts I thought “this is freaking profound” and during others I thought “this is bullshit” so I’m really not sure how to rate this

[Michael Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye opener for me--the best so far in these issues--I am grasping the critical science!

I've read articles and books on vaccines, autoimmunity and other subjects related and, for the first time, I really understand many of the interconnected issues regarding the immune system and how it deals with toxins. This book is a must-read because it breaks down scientific facts in a writing style that is not too hard to grasp for somebody who has a rudimentary grasp of science, physiology, and the related issues.

Tom's writing style is easy to follow and he is charitable toward all parties involved. He himself was an ER doctor and family practice doctor so he has experience on the ground. I now understand what is going on in the human body regarding these issues and many others.

--Clear explanation of how there are 2 different types of immune systems.

--Why going through an illness with fever produces much longer lasting immunity that vaccines ever could.

--The history of polio and measles and why the vaccines were not the thing that saved us from those terrible epidemics.

The importance of a healthy gut and microbiome related to quality foods and reduction of toxins.

--The actual ingredients of the vaccines.

--Why the vaccines will simply not work without the toxins they contain. I was amazed at the substances which we are injecting directly into our bloodstream! If we took these substances and ate them, at least our gut would have a chance to get rid of them, but when they're in our bloodstream, well, you can see why they would be issues especially with smaller children.

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great book. It breaks down the science of immunology, cell biology, gut flora and how all of this is affected by vaccines. It's an important book in an important time where people who choose to make any choices other than blindly following CDC guidelines are being ostracized and outcast. The science is not settled. There are valid points on both sides and everyone should be free to make the decisions they feel best suit their family. Thomas Cowan does a very good job of laying out the science behind this, as simply as can possibly be laid out for as difficult a topic. It's very readable given it's complex content.

[Sarah Billing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone parent needs to read this book before using vaccines.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book!! It really rocked my world, especially chapter 3 on the immune system. It really gives you an in depth understanding of how your body works; from your immune system all the way down to your cells structure. A must read for anyone wanting to learn about vaccines or anyone that has an autoimmune disease.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Short, but incredibly informative and thought-provoking! This book gets a little scientific about the causes of autoimmune diseases and while I found it so fascinating, I got a little lost in the jargon in chapter six (Rethinking Cell Biology)...but the author speaks from a place of passion and education, that I want to learn more - investigate further.

Part two of the book takes a deeper look into chicken pox, polio, and measles and I have to say, I was blown away by the evidence. I love books that make you think and open your eyes! And it makes so much sense. He also goes into the components of vaccines (ingredients) and discusses their “purpose” and associated risks.

The end of the book contains references to articles, journals, etc., along with recommended resources. Overall, I thought this was a really great book that I will pass along to others...I didn’t give it five stars because I didn’t care for his recommended treatment protocol - probably due to my personal dietary beliefs. But I appreciated a few of his principles!

[MCAT · Rating 1 out of 5]

I want to have an open mind about vaccines, so I read this book. The author is not convincing. His main line of evidence requires that we believe in his new concept of cell biology, which he does not explain in sufficient detail to evaluate scientifically. He asked the reader to trust that all cell biologists for all time have been confused about the nature of H2O, and that because there is a special "fourth state" of water as a gel matrix, the charges around a cell behave differently and result in problems with autoimmunity caused by vaccines. He cites the work of one cell biologist from China. I want to read the work of that scientist. But this whole perspective depends so heavily on something so strange and arcane (and poorly explained in the book) that I walk away from this feeling even more skeptical of the anti-vax movement. Which is opposite to the author's intention (he is very biased in his opinion on the matter of childhood vaccination).

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a mixed bag for me. Some of it seems like pure common sense. There was some new information I found interesting that I want to read further on, but there were other points that I found strange or simply didn't understand.

Regardless, I think he made a good overall point that "Illness...is part of the human condition" and agree with his conclusion that "We have traded a temporary reduction in, in many cases innocuous childhood illnesses, for a lifetime of...chronic disease." (quote written
down while listening to the audiobook, not double checked for accuracy).

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5. In my opinion, making healthcare decision as an individual or as a parent doesn’t need to be a zero-sum game. This book does a great job in laying out some fundamental truths about our immune system and how the current, government-and-industry-approved healthcare system is, just maybe, pushing things on us that aren’t best for the health of our children (or any of us).

[Charissa Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well sourced! Highly recommend. The notes and appendices were so detailed. Worth engaging in conversations about autoimmune diseases.

[Timothy Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

My thoughts on this short but sweet little book are mixed. On the one hand, this is an excellent starting place for vaccine skeptics and those questioning the bloat of the medical-industrial complex. On the other hand, Dr Cowan leaves a lot up to speculation, and some of his points lack data. There is a sort of earthy pseudo-spiritualism to the whole thing that begs to be grounded in something substantial like Christianity but it just isn't.

The crux of Cowan's theory around the interaction between vaccines and autoimmunity revolves around a niche understanding of the cell that opposes the mainstream cellular theory. This theory states that cells achieve a fourth state of water known as gel, and that toxic components of vaccines interrupt this state. Cowan goes so far as to state that most diseases are simplifiable to a dysfunction in the water regulation of cells, and though this would be appealing and simple, it isn't supported by much evidence. This doesn't represent the whole of his theory, but at least a whole chapter is dedicated to it.

Many of his issues with vaccines and healthcare systems in modernity seem to be philosophical, such as his understanding of human development in "[having] four distinct yet interpenetrating 'bodies' of disease". What a strange way of viewing childhood illness and it's contribution to the immune system over the life span. This strange phrasing and theory is supporting by compelling claims, such as contracting measles treats and prevents nephrotic syndrome, as opposed to the measles vaccine, which neither treats nor prevents this syndrome.

Many arguments were excellent. I enjoy how Cowan drags the conflicts of interest between the government officials and their participation in pharmaceutical companies into the light. I love his exposure of the conflicts in the claims that vaccines have "cured" illnesses that were basically on their way out through improvements in nutrition and waste management. I really enjoyed his breakdown towards the end of the book that names nearly every childhood vaccine, their ingredients, and how toxic they are. And I loved his dietary advice for those suffering from autoimmune diseases, which I would agree are largely caused by poor diet, lack of exercise, and unnecessary vaccinations.

High point: when he demonstrated that someone who gets chicken pox as a kid and is exposed to their own kids getting chicken pox is almost a non-candidate for late-life shingles as the immune system is re-exposed and armed for the reemergence of the virus. However, someone who is vaccinated may contract shingles from the vaccine, and they are not exposed to the virus in their kids who are vaccinated, which increases the likelihood of contracting shingles even in adults who had chickenpox as kids.

Low points: many of Cowan's claims are only supported by one unilateral piece of evidence. I understand that it is hard to gather evidence on these subjects due to the aforementioned conflicts of interests and profit incentives that keep people from investigating, but it still makes it hard for someone to jump in with both feet on this presentation alone. Another low point was his use of "she" and "her" to refer to hypothetical patients in scenarios for demonstrations. Not only does this fly in the face of the last entire history of the English language, but this type of virtue-signaling actually achieved the opposite effect. Most of the time this "she" is on the receiving end of some kind of autoimmune illness, so it comes across opposite from the intended outcome (giving more representation to women) and appears more that women are merely the main possessors of bad health.

[Aggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good introductory book about looking at the connection between vaccines and the nature of autoimmune diseases. I liked how the author broke it down into parts: explaining what happens when we get sick and what it means, how our immune system works, what autoimmunity is, how vaccines impact our immune system.

The part that was most eye-opening to me was his chapter on our immune system and how we have two systems: cell-mediated and humoral (you'll have to read the book for a full explanation about them). They each work in their own unique way to keep us healthy. The problem with vaccines is they only focus on one system, the humoral, which is characterised by creating antibodies. But we also need to create a cell-mediated response to clear toxins from the body. Also, his explanation of how vaccines have the potential to create autoimmune disease makes a lot of sense when you think about the only goal when administering a vaccine is to create antibodies while suppressing a cell-mediated response which is what clears the toxins of the acute illnesses from our bodies. Thus, the author asks a very important question, "Is it so outlandish to ask whether autoimmune disease is a natural consequence of overstimulating the humoral immune response, precisely as we do when we administer a vaccine?" Remember, autoimmune disease is characterized as an "overstimulation" of the immune system such that it produces an excessive amount of antibodies which then cross-react with one's own tissues, recognising them as foreign and attacking them.

We live in a strange time...we claim to be so advanced in science and medicine yet we are so terrified of acute illnesses that we try to eliminate them completely, disregarding their benefits to our overall health. We ignore the studies that show that those who had certain acute illnesses are later protected against more serious health issues, such as cancer. Instead of figuring out how to support someone during an acute illness (to avoid the side effects), we try to prevent it from happening in the first place. It's like we don't trust that we have an immune system for a reason and when we don't allow it to do what it was always intended to do, it starts attacking us, hence autoimmune disease that is becoming so prevalent today.

[Fallon · Rating 1 out of 5]

A few fair points mixed in with 1-person case study examples and pseudoscience. Lost credibility when on p. 53 Cowan said he didn’t understand why ER patients don’t come in with water pouring out of their wounds if our cells are mostly comprised of water. Also some really questionable beliefs/comments regarding the autistic community.

[Sandra Mather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a well-informed and clearly written treatment of vaccines and the immune system. I learned a great deal and feel that I am more informed regarding this issue.

[GothChickVibing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone needs to read this immediately!

[T. L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found it quite informative especially about autoimmune diseases, regardless if they are caused by vaccines or not (poisoning from harmful chemicals can happen in many ways e.g. pharmaceutical drugs, food, skin application, air etc) this book can be quite valuable for someone with such a disease. Dr Cowan shares personal observations, years of experience, stories of patients and suggestions on how to address and heal.

One star less is due to reference to the germ theory which he debunks in his latest book, 'The Contagion Myth Why Viruses (including "Coronavirus") Are Not the Cause of Disease' and with I which I totally agree. Germs and especially viruses have never been proven using Koch postulates that they are the cause of any disease. I suggest anyone interest in viruses, germs and diseases to have a look at the Terrain theory, Béchamp work (e.g. The Blood and its Third Element), Virus Mania and What Really Makes You Ill? books, Stefan Lanka articles and videos.

[Samantha Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good and informative!

It talks about how the childhood illnesses we prevent with vaccines are actually beneficial to the health of the child and to their health as an adult as long as they have a healthy and sanitary environment.

Preventing these illnesses with vaccines has not only caused issues that can be linked to the ingredients themselves, but has also caused various immune system problems by completely hijacking it.

The worst of these issues is the epidemic of chronic illness and autoimmune diseases. Once you read this book, it makes total sense how hijacking our God-given immune system (that is designed to work perfectly in the correct environment and conditions) can lead to even worse outcomes down the road.

It also had some very interesting info about polio and its vaccine 👀

[Kate Wartak]

I don’t think this book is really about vaccines; it’s about autoimmunity. The author makes the case that vaccines cause an immune response that puts our immune systems in overdrive, but the bigger issue is the autoimmune disorders that are becoming an epidemic. Those have roots in (possibly) vaccines, our diets, medication, environmental factors, etc. This breaks down a complex concept (autoimmune disorders) and helps explain it in simpler terms. While I don’t agree with everything, I think the author makes some compelling points.

[Jennifer McMaster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having an autoimmune disease that has greatly impacted my life, this book was really helpful in understanding just why so many people today suffer from them as well. Dr. Cowan is a genius, a great researcher, and a rare humanitarian physician. Some of the technical science he cites is a bit tedious but necessary since it authenticates his message. Thankfully there are ways to combat autoimmunity and Cowan offers that hope in the last couple of chapters.

[Samantha Cefola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great information and very easy to understand. Highly recommend if needing information!

[;-; Hollingsworth · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting and thought provoking book, however when Cowan went on to discuss how certain dietary changes could be all that is needed to cure an autoimmune disease I was slightly deterred. Despite that, it was a very engaging book with a lot of ideas to think about that add to this debate of vaccination.

[Emma · Rating 2 out of 5]

What even is this? The first half the author says his fondest memories are getting chicken pox and we shouldn’t be robbing parents of their right to care for sick children? The last half is a self promo for his diet plan. Idk what I expected but I at least expected to learn something. Im trying to better understand the anti-vaxers in my life but this book certainly didn’t help. The icing on the cake was the lack of sources. I’m happy to learn but I can’t learn without sources for the authors science and research he references.

It’s not the most wild anti vax stuff I’ve heard. In fact I’m sure many can agree with the author about growing more food ourselves, making food from scratch, getting back to some natural medicines, etc. but wow I cannot separate that from the other wild stufff in this book

[Lisanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in a couple of days. The writing style was very smooth and I appreciated the tips from all kinds of books and advice covered in the book.

Dr Cowan's case studies and practical experience were also very enjoyable. His book is written with a clear opinion and views, there is not always scientific evidence. So it is important to know before reading this book that it is mainly his opinion and experience.
In doing so, you can take his opinion or not. I had some question marks on a few things, but most of the advice was in line with my own opinion. Of course, it's still someone's own research, you can be completely on a level with that or not.

In addition, I found it very unfortunate that he tips 1 type of diet. I would have liked to see some diverse advice back from his own practice.

All in all, a very good book that I enjoyed reading. Very bold that with his position as a doctor he dares to address this issue and speak out about it.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't recommend this book enough!

It really emphasizes how intelligently designed our bodies truly are and how humans always get in the way by trying to control things.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I do not agree with the writer about several things, the way the immune system is showed and talked through is fascinating. He even makes several points which leaves me questioning in the end. This proves to me the author did a great job adding a layer to the vaccine debate.

[Simone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read quite a few books on this topic and this book was different from most. Cowan takes a philosophical approach mostly. Still chock full of scientific evidence and studies etc, but mostly it makes you think. The stories of autoimmune diseases and recovery were very interesting. His solution is practical. A lot of similarities to “The Autoimmune Fix” by Tom O’Bryan, but I think Cowan’s approach is simpler to follow and he has astounding statistics of success. Some of his water talk and recommendations (about structuring water) seem a bit hokey, but that part can’t hurt to try. His point is still applicable regardless: we are mostly made of water, and it makes sense to make it a priority to get the best quality water, and with that minerals and electroytes, that we can. The discussion of childhood vaccines was short and to the point, a nice summary of the most important historical and scientific aspects. Good for someone new to the vaccine debate. This book is a very quick read, and also one I would recommend owning as a reference.

I loved his emphasis on diversity in the diet, especially when it comes to plant foods. It’s so easy to get stuck eating the same things over and over again, especially with today’s restrictive fad diets. He recommends around 15 different plant foods on a daily basis, aiming for 60-80 different types of plant foods within the month. He recommends actually taking care to track this for at least a month, to see where you are at. Considering each plant has it’s unique chemical profiles with likely medicinal qualities we may yet be unaware of, I think this is smart advice.