Statement on CDC’s vaccines and autism webpage

Decades of rigorous and scientifically sound research have proven that vaccines do not cause autism. CDC’s sudden decision to change language on its website reversing that finding is reckless and harmful.  

This change is deeply troubling because it is false and lacks transparency. There is no scientific rationale for CDC to change its long-standing assertion that there is no link between vaccines and autism. This change is not driven by science but by politics and will only serve to increase mistrust in science and medicine.  

Vaccine misinformation has dangerous effects. Right now, the ongoing measles outbreak in the United States is putting the country on the verge of losing its long-held status as having eliminated measles.  

We need to quickly return to medical information and recommendations being based on sound science, not unverified opinions. 

— Ronald G. Nahass, MD, MHCM, FIDSA — President, IDSA 

— Anna K. Person, MD, FIDSA — Chair, HIV Medicine Association 

— Carol M. McLay, DrPH, MPH, RN, FAPIC, FSHEA, CIC — President, APIC 

— David J. Weber, MD, MPH, FIDSA, FSHEA, FRSM — President, SHEA 

— Erin K. McCreary, PharmD, BCIDP, FIDSA — President, SIDP 

About IDSA and HIVMA
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000 clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity’s smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Within IDSA, the HIV Medicine Association is a community of health care professionals who advance a comprehensive and humane response to the HIV pandemic, informed by science and social justice. Visit idsociety.org and hivma.org to learn more. 

About APIC
Founded in 1972, the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology is the leading association for infection preventionists and epidemiologists. With more than 15,000 members, APIC advances the science and practice of infection prevention and control. APIC carries out its mission through research, advocacy and patient safety; education, credentialing and certification; and fostering development of the infection prevention and control workforce of the future. Together with our members and partners, we are working toward a safer world through the prevention of infection. Join us and learn more at apic.org. 

About SHEA
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America works to advance the science and practice of healthcare epidemiology and infection prevention. Founded in 1980, SHEA promotes education, research and advocacy to improve patient care and safety. For more information, visit shea-online.org.    

About SIDP
Founded in 1990, the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists is dedicated to promoting the appropriate use of antimicrobials through education, training, research and policy. SIDP is the premier organization for pharmacists engaged in infectious diseases, with more than 2,000 pharmacists and other healthcare professional members. Part of our mission is to develop collaborative relationships with other professional and regulatory organizations involved in education, clinical practice, research and policy development related to the prevention and management of infectious diseases. We are committed to advancing infectious diseases pharmacy through collaborative research and education and optimizing the care of patients with infections in every practice setting. Learn more at sidp.org.