Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey criticized the federal government for spreading misinformation suggesting a link between vaccines and autism. The comments follow an update to the CDC website, requested by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which included claims implying a connection. Healey emphasized that scientific evidence does not support such a link.
According to a press release, obtained by mass.gov, Governor Healey expressed concern that the CDC’s recent claims could spread misinformation and affect public health. She emphasized that vaccines are safe, effective, and lifesaving, and criticized the claims linking vaccines to autism as false and potentially harmful.
Healey’s office also noted other CDC guidance it questioned, including statements about the risks of Tylenol during pregnancy and updates to COVID-19 vaccination recommendations. She pointed to resources from the state’s Department of Public Health as evidence-based and reliable. Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein also supported Healey in ensuring the accuracy of public health information.
