Bethesda, MD (November 20, 2025)—The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is deeply concerned by the statement posted on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website on November 19, 2025, suggesting a possible link between vaccines and autism. This implication is scientifically unfounded and contradicts decades of rigorous research conducted in the United States and internationally. The assertion that “‘vaccines do not cause autism’ is not an evidence-based statement” is a blatant falsehood.
The potential association between vaccines and autism—and between aluminum adjuvants and autism—has been extensively examined through high-quality epidemiologic studies involving millions of children across diverse populations. Numerous independent reviews, including those conducted by CDC itself, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the World Health Organization, have all reached the same conclusion: There is no credible evidence that vaccines cause autism.
What the public should know:
- Vaccines remain safe, effective, and rigorously monitored.
- Extensive research has ruled out any causal link between vaccines and autism.
- Parents and caregivers should continue to follow evidence-based immunization schedules, which protect children, adolescents, and adults from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases.
- Individuals seeking accurate information should talk with a trusted healthcare professional.
About the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. NFID has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum transparency seal from Candid/GuideStar. For more information, and to access trusted science-based resources on immunization for both healthcare professionals and the public, visit www.nfid.org.
Contact: Diana Olson, communications@nfid.org
Recent Press Releases
Statement on CDC ACIP Meeting
The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases and leading scientific and medical organizations express alarm at actions by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)
National Health Organizations: Flu Shots Critical for Individuals with Diabetes, Heart, and Lung Disease
During National Influenza Vaccination Week, experts encourage everyone age 6 months and older to get vaccinated to reduce risk of severe illness and hospitalization
Statement on September 2025 Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Meeting
NFID strongly supports the use of evidence-based guidance to inform public health policy and will work to preserve equitable access, choice, and public and private insurance coverage to life-saving immunizations to protect the health of people across the US …