DPH Commissioner Rebukes Misleading Assertions about Vaccines and Autism

 DPH Commissioner Rebukes Misleading Assertions about Vaccines and Autism 

Vaccines do not cause autism, and there is no link between childhood vaccines and autism. This has been proven repeatedly through decades of rigorous, high-quality research involving millions of children worldwide. The evidence is clear, consistent, and overwhelming.

 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) rejects the assertion posted Nov. 19, 2025 on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website which suggests that the statement “vaccines do not cause autism” is not evidence-based or that studies have failed to rule out a connection between childhood vaccines and autism. Such claims are factually incorrect and deliberately misleading. They contradict the global scientific consensus and undermine public confidence in vaccines. Vaccines are one of the most effective and life-saving interventions in the history of medicine and public health.

 

For an official federal website to include such misinformation is deeply troubling and even dangerous. It fuels misinformation and leads to misplaced doubt that puts children, families, and communities at risk for serious illness. These claims reflect ideology, not evidence.

 

DPH is committed to providing the public with accurate, science-based information. We continue to monitor emerging research, consult with leading experts, and update our guidance as new high-quality evidence becomes available. And we will continue to push back forcefully against misinformation and disinformation that threaten the health and safety of the people of Massachusetts – especially when it appears on official federal platforms.  We are currently reviewing our website and are removing links to CDC content that contains or amplifies such false and misleading claims.