What unfortunate consequence arose from the false belief about vaccinations and autism?

The belief that vaccinations could cause autism, stemming from a now-discredited study, led to a significant decrease in vaccination rates among children. As a result, many regions experienced outbreaks of diseases that vaccinations typically prevent. The rise in measles cases is a notable consequence because the measles vaccine is both effective and crucial in maintaining herd immunity. When fewer people are vaccinated, the virus can spread more easily, leading to increased incidence of measles—a disease that can have serious health complications.

In contrast, while there are historical concerns related to polio, the anti-vaccine movement primarily impacted diseases that are preventable through routine vaccinations, with measles being a prominent example in recent years. The other options do not accurately reflect the direct consequences of the misinformation surrounding vaccinations and autism.