Q and A: Vaccines and Autism: What You Should Know

• 2019

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This fact sheet describes what autism is, its symptoms, and how it is mostly caused by genetics. It explains that vaccines, including the MMR vaccine and those with thimerosal, do not cause autism. Studies have shown no link between vaccines and autism. It also says that babies are not harmed by getting several vaccines early in life because their immune systems can handle many challenges. Delaying or skipping vaccines does not lower the risk of autism but increases the chance of serious diseases.

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Tags

Focus Area: Infectious Disease

Audience: Families & Children

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Epidemiologic Studies; Child Development Disorders, Pervasive; Environmental Exposure; Immunization; Risk Factors; Thimerosal; Vaccination; Vaccines; Measles-Mumps-Rubella Vaccine; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Autism Spectrum Disorder

Institutions: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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