Summary
The CDC updated its website to say the statement "Vaccines do not cause autism" is not evidence-based, which has upset many public health and autism experts. This change seems to contradict long-standing scientific consensus that vaccines do not cause autism. The update does not cite new research and has raised concerns about the influence of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Key Facts
- The CDC changed its “vaccine safety” webpage to suggest the statement "Vaccines do not cause autism" is not evidence-based.
- This change conflicts with the scientific consensus that vaccines do not cause autism.
- Many scientists and autism experts expressed strong disagreement with the new wording on the webpage.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is the Secretary of Health and Human Services, has previously claimed a link between vaccines and autism.
- Suspicion exists that the Department of Health and Human Services, not the CDC itself, made the change.
- Some former CDC officials have expressed distrust in current CDC communications regarding vaccine safety.
- The page retains a headline saying "Vaccines do not cause autism" with a note due to an agreement with a Senate committee.
