Measles vaccination in Afghanistan. (Archive) WHO expert panel reaffirms no link between vaccines and autism Healthcare
A World Health Organization (WHO) expert committee has reaffirmed that there is no causal link between vaccines and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This statement was made by WHO following a new analysis of global scientific data.
At a meeting on November 27, the WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety reviewed the results of 31 large studies published between 2010 and August 2025. The analysis covered data from different countries and included an assessment of both vaccines in general and products containing thiomersal, a preservative sometimes used to prevent contamination in multi-dose vials.
Vaccines are safe
As the committee noted, the analysis confirmed that the vaccines are safe for children and pregnant women, and that there is no causality links to autism spectrum disorders.
Experts also addressed concerns about some vaccines that contain small amounts of aluminum salts, which enhance the body’s immune response. The assessment used studies published over more than two decades, as well as a large study from Denmark that included children born between 1997 and 2018.
The WHO committee concluded that available evidence does not establish a link between aluminum used in some vaccines and ASD. Aluminum salts have been used safely for many decades.
The review panel confirmed previous findings in 2002, 2004 and 2012: “Vaccines, including those containing thiomersal and/or aluminum, do not cause autism.”
60~p>WHO called on governments to ensure that vaccination policies was based on scientific evidence, noting that “global efforts to immunize children represent one of the greatest achievements in improving the living conditions and well-being of societies.” WHO estimates that vaccines have saved at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years.
US Debate
On September 24, the WHO issued a statement amid renewed political debate over vaccinations in the United States. At the time, the WHO warned against returning to theories linking vaccines to autism, emphasizing that “there is a strong and extensive evidence base that childhood vaccines do not cause autism.”
Studies suggesting otherwise, the WHO said, were flawed and have long since been refuted.
The organization reiterated that independent Research over the years has reached the same conclusion: vaccines are safe, effective, and key to public health. WHO said it will continue to review new data and advise countries based on the best scientific evidence.