CDC claims -- without evidence -- there's a possible link between vaccines and autism

By Pien Huang,

Leila Fadel

Published November 21, 2025 at 4:42 AM EST

The CDC has changed its stance on vaccines and autism, claiming now there's a possible link. The claim, which has been widely debunked, alarmed doctors and delighted anti-vaccine activists.

Health & Safety

Pien Huang

Pien Huang is a reporter on the Science desk, covering public health and health disparities. She also guest hosts on NPR news programs, and narrates the Moments in History series on the NPR One app.

Leila Fadel

Leila Fadel is a host of Morning Edition, as well as NPR's morning news podcast Up First.

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CDC claims -- without evidence -- there's a possible link between vaccines and autism

Support quality journalism, like the story above, with your gift right now.

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