The CDC has abruptly changed a key webpage on vaccines and autism, replacing years of clear, evidence-based messaging with language that suggests the science is “not settled.” Until now, the agency has stated plainly that research shows vaccines do not cause autism. The newly revised page hints that a link is still possible, claims some studies haven’t ruled it out, and even suggests that evidence pointing to a connection has been “ignored” by health officials.

Even more troubling: the page still carries the headline “vaccines do not cause autism,” but the CDC now admits that title remains only because of an agreement with Senator Bill Cassidy. Other CDC and FDA vaccine pages continue to state the scientific consensus directly, making the sudden shift even more jarring.

The change mirrors long-standing talking points from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who now leads the Department of Health and Human Services. Vaccine-skeptical organizations he founded are celebrating the update. Since taking office, Kennedy has made autism a top priority, and the CDC recently announced new funding to explore a vaccine link—even though this question has already been answered repeatedly.

According to the revised page, HHS is launching a “comprehensive assessment” of autism and plans to make further updates. The agency claims the reworded page reflects “gold-standard” science.

Experts say the opposite. Autism researchers, physicians, and public health leaders warn that the new wording is misleading, scientifically inaccurate, and dangerous. Dr. Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, emphasizes that more than 40 large-scale, independent studies—covering over 5.6 million people across seven countries—have found no connection between vaccines and autism. The Autism Science Foundation points out that vaccines are the most thoroughly studied environmental factor in autism research, and the evidence is overwhelming.

ASF president Alison Singer put it bluntly: “Facts don’t change just because the administration does. We don’t need more studies—we need people to accept the results we already have.” (more)