The European Public Health Association (EUPHA) strongly condemns the recent statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggesting a link between autism and the use of paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy and childhood vaccinations.

These claims are not supported by scientific evidence and risk undermining public trust in essential health interventions.

EUPHA strongly endorses the statement by the World Health Organization (WHO) of 24 September 2025, which reaffirmed that:

There is no conclusive scientific evidence linking the use of paracetamol during pregnancy to autism spectrum disorder.
Vaccines do not cause autism. This conclusion is supported by decades of rigorous, high-quality research across multiple countries. Earlier studies suggesting a link have been thoroughly discredited.

EUPHA echoes WHO’s guidance that fever during pregnancy must be treated appropriately, as untreated fever can pose serious risks to both the mother and the developing foetus. Paracetamol remains one of the safest and most effective treatments for fever and pain during pregnancy when used as advised by healthcare professionals.

Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health. The childhood immunisation schedule, developed through evidence-based processes and endorsed by WHO, has saved millions of lives and continues to protect communities from infectious diseases. Disrupting or delaying vaccination schedules based on unfounded claims increases the risk of outbreaks and endangers vulnerable populations.

EUPHA urges policymakers, media outlets, and the public to rely on credible scientific sources and to reject misinformation that threatens public health. We stand with global health authorities in reaffirming the safety and importance of both paracetamol and vaccines.

The WHO statement is at: https://www.who.int/news/item/24-09-2025-who-statement-on-autism-related-issues

For further information email: office@eupha.org