In the last few weeks, the federal government has made some choices about vaccines that are not based on science or facts. You can read our formal language statement about these choices here [[link removed]]. You can read our plain language statement about these choices here [[link removed]].

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which makes choices about vaccines, is advised by vaccine experts on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). ACIP has meetings where members vote on what advice they will give to HHS about vaccines. ACIP had a meeting in June. At the meeting, ACIP members voted to get rid of thimerosal in all vaccines. Thimerosal is an ingredient that helps vaccines stay safe to use for a longer time. Thimerosal is only used in some kinds of vaccines for the flu.

Some people said that thimerosal can cause autism. There has never been any evidence that this is the case. Studies have shown many times that thimerosal in flu vaccines does not cause autism, brain damage, or any harm to people.

Last week, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) adopted ACIP’s advice. That means HHS will make rules that only let people get vaccines that do not have thimerosal. Then, HHS put out a social media video in which HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. shared a lot of false information about thimerosal and vaccines.

People deserve access to factual health information. We need to be able to trust HHS to share information that is true. You can read our full statement on this issue in both formal language and plain language here [[link removed]].


Autistic Self Advocacy Network
PO Box 66122
Washington, DC 20035
United States
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