AAFP: Linking Vaccines to Autism is Unproven and Dangerous

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 22, 2025

Media Contact:
pr@aafp.org

Vaccines do not cause autism. Decades of rigorous research have failed to provide credible scientific evidence linking vaccines to autism. Vaccines are among the most effective tools we have to keep people, especially infants and children, healthy and out of hospitals. Continued claims about a vaccine-autism link risk public health by causing people to delay or defer vaccination out of fear.

There is also no credible body of evidence linking acetaminophen (commonly known as Tylenol) use in pregnancy to autism. The claim is unfounded and has been refuted by rigorous studies and systematic reviews.

Family physicians join individuals with autism and their families and caregivers in wanting to fully understand the causes of autism, why the prevalence of autism is increasing and how to support individuals with autism. Continuing to promote myths about a vaccine-autism or acetaminophen-autism distracts from research and resources that will benefit people living with autism.

The American Academy of Family Physicians will thoroughly review any evidence shared by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The assertions made by HHS must be met with the full force of scientific scrutiny. We owe that to the public, to science and most of all, to the families who trust us to protect their health.

*Editorial note: As of Sept. 22, 2025, the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control website still displayed information declaring, “Studies have shown that there is no link between receiving vaccines and developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD)” (Autism and Vaccines | Vaccine Safety | CDC).

*Editorial note: As of Nov. 19, 2025, the CDC has modified this content. The AAFP position remains unchanged.

###