The World Health Organization (WHO) has dismissed claims linking paracetamol use during pregnancy or vaccines to autism, calling such suggestions “inconsistent” with scientific evidence.

The statement followed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who on Monday suggested a link between autism, childhood vaccines, and Tylenol (paracetamol) use during pregnancy — claims widely discredited by researchers and medical organizations.

“The evidence remains inconsistent,” said WHO spokesperson Tarik Jašarević at a press briefing in Geneva. “We know that vaccines do not cause autism. Vaccines save countless lives, and this is something science has repeatedly proven. Such questions should not undermine public confidence.”


The American Psychiatric Association also issued a statement reaffirming that vaccines are safe, citing decades of peer-reviewed research. The National Autistic Society echoed the sentiment on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Painkillers do not cause autism and vaccines do not cause autism. Large-scale studies have shown no robust scientific evidence to support these claims. Fearmongering of this kind is dangerous, anti-science, and irresponsible.”

What Is Autism?

Autism, formally known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects communication, learning, and social interaction in varying degrees. While some individuals experience profound autism and intellectual disabilities, most cases present milder challenges.


Autism diagnoses have risen in recent decades, largely due to broader diagnostic criteria, improved screening, and greater awareness among parents and educators. In the 1990s, autism was estimated at 1 in 150 children; today, about 1 in 31 children are identified with ASD. Experts stress this reflects better recognition of milder cases, not an epidemic of severe autism.

Autism Causes

Research indicates autism is primarily genetic, with hundreds of genes identified as contributing factors. These genes can be inherited or result from new mutations during fetal brain development. Other contributing factors may include advanced paternal age, preterm birth, and certain maternal health conditions during pregnancy.

Experts emphasize that vaccines, including the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) shot, have been extensively studied and repeatedly cleared of any association with autism.

Autism-Tylenol Link

Some studies have suggested a possible link between acetaminophen (Tylenol) use in pregnancy and autism, but findings remain inconclusive. “Many other studies have found no association,” said David Mandell, an autism researcher at the University of Pennsylvania.

Medical experts caution against avoiding fever treatment during pregnancy, as untreated fevers — particularly in the first trimester — can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and other complications. The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine continues to recommend acetaminophen as a safe option for managing fever and pain during pregnancy, provided it is taken under medical guidance.