CDC quietly alters vaccine-autism stance

A significant shift in messaging has occurred on a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention webpage concerning vaccines and autism. Previously asserting that vaccines do not cause autism, the site now suggests this link has not been ruled out by studies, a claim lacking scientific backing. This alteration was made on Wednesday and has since sparked considerable concern and condemnation from medical professionals and advocacy groups.

In addition to the revised statement, the Department of Health and Human Services has announced a "comprehensive assessment" into the causes of autism, though details remain vague. This move is particularly alarming to organizations like the Autism Science Foundation, which decried the change as "anti-vaccine rhetoric" and a betrayal of the CDC's role as a trusted source of scientific information. They warn of potential consequences, including increased vaccine hesitancy among parents.

Despite this recent webpage update, other CDC resources continue to state that scientific evidence shows no relationship between vaccines and autism. The exact origin of the altered language and the individuals responsible remain unclear, adding to the controversy surrounding this developing situation.