Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 11, 2025 Healthcare
A World Health Organization (WHO) expert committee has reaffirmed that there is no causal link between vaccines and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The WHO made this statement following a new analysis of global scientific evidence.
At its meeting on November 27, the WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety reviewed the results of 31 major studies published between 2010 and August 2025. The analysis covered data from multiple 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
The committee noted that the analysis confirmed the safety of the vaccines for children and pregnant women, as well as the absence of a causal link with autism spectrum disorders.
Experts also examined concerns regarding some vaccines that contain small amounts of aluminum salts, which boost the body's immune response. The assessment utilized studies published over more than two decades, as well as a large Danish study that included children born between 1997 and 2018.
The WHO committee concluded that available data do not establish a link between aluminum used in some vaccines and ASD. Aluminum salts have been used safely for many decades.
Following the review, the expert group confirmed previous findings made in 2002, 2004 and 2012: “Vaccines, including those containing thiomersal and/or aluminum, do not cause autism.”
The WHO has called on governments to ensure that vaccination policies are based on scientific evidence, noting that "global efforts to immunize children represent one of the greatest achievements in improving living conditions and societal well-being." The WHO estimates that vaccines have saved at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years.
Debate in the US
On September 24, the WHO issued a statement amid renewed political debate over vaccination in the United States. At the time, the WHO cautioned against reviving theories linking vaccines to autism, emphasizing that "there is a robust and extensive evidence base that childhood vaccines do not cause autism."
Studies that claimed otherwise, the WHO said, were flawed and have long been disproven.
The organization reiterated that independent research over many years consistently leads to the same conclusion: vaccines are safe, effective, and crucial for public health. The WHO stated that it will continue to review new data and advise countries based on the best scientific evidence.
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