A note from our Executive Director on recent federal health announcements
You may have seen recent reports about the issues of vaccine safety and the causes of autism that were unfounded and not based on scientific evidence. These reports have caused understandable confusion among parents, families, and people with autism. In the face of so much misinformation, I wanted share a few facts, and highlight the trusted resources and experts that we turn to at GHF:
Autism facts, resources, and experts:
Research shows that taking Tylenol (also known as acetaminophen) as directed during pregnancy does not cause or increase the risks of autism (JAMA Network). Major medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, continue to recommend acetaminophen as the safest option for pain and fever during pregnancy.
Avoiding needed treatment can be risky—for example, an untreated high fever in pregnancy can harm both the pregnant person and the baby (CDC).
To learn more about autism and hear from experts, including people with autism, refer to:
Autism Self-Advocacy Network–Read their public statement about recent autism announcements from the federal government
Vaccine safety and efficacy and recent changes to childhood vaccine schedules
Vaccines are some of the most studied and successful medical interventions in the world. They go through extensive testing in clinical trials that test vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. (Let’s Get Real About Vaccines.Org)
Discuss which vaccines are appropriate and recommended for you, your children, and other loved ones with your health care provider.
Until recent changes to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), this panel carefully weighed the scientific evidence about what vaccines were needed and recommended at various stages of life or for specific groups of people. The recently-reformed ACIP made and considered changes to vaccine recommendations that are not based on scientific evidence. Learn more at PBS NewsHour and Your Local Epidemiologist
Science-based vaccine information and resources can be found at:
As always, ask your health care provider for guidance about your health, medications, and other health care services. At Georgians for a Healthy Future, we remain committed to providing clear, evidence-based information to all Georgians.
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