Statement by AUSOM on CDC’s Autism & Vaccine Page Update:
Last night, the CDC changed its website to say that “studies suggesting a link between autism and childhood vaccines have been ignored.” In fact, this is one of the most thoroughly researched questions, after false research misdirected millions of parents and families with autism. The autism community needs legitimate research into the causes and support for challenges facing being with autism like intellectual disabilities, speech, mental health and more, and this change came without any of the rigor promised earlier this year by Secretary Kennedy. Parents should be able to rely on the CDC for sound medical advice on vaccines and once again that trust has been broken. Please read below for a full statement by the Autism Society of America.
Statement by Autism Society of America:
The Autism Society of America is deeply concerned by language suggesting that the established scientific consensus on vaccines and autism is uncertain. The public relies on accurate, evidence-based information from CDC and other government websites, and messaging that implies uncertainty about vaccines and autism only leads to confusion and mistrust. Extensive research has examined vaccines more thoroughly than any other environmental factor in relation to autism, including both vaccine ingredients and the body’s response, and it has consistently found no link across studies conducted in multiple countries, on children of different ages including infants, and using a variety of research approaches. Reverting to misinformation surrounding vaccines is harmful and fuels stigma against autistic people and their families. Autism is shaped by complex developmental and genetic factors, not something to be blamed on vaccines or treated as a public health threat. Repeating unsupported claims about autism and vaccines undermines trust in public health and diverts attention and resources from the priorities that truly matter, including access to services, meaningful supports, inclusion, and respect. Public institutions have a responsibility to communicate clearly, accurately, and in ways that uphold the dignity and humanity of autistic people. Autistic individuals deserve understanding and support, not fear-based narratives.
