WHO rubbishes Trump’s claim on autism, paracetamol: ‘These things should not be…’

Former US President Donald Trump has stirred debate after linking the use of paracetamol during pregnancy and vaccines to the rise in autism cases in America. Speaking recently, Trump claimed that women should avoid taking acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol or Tylenol, unless absolutely necessary, suggesting it “may be connected” to autism. He also repeated his controversial view that vaccines might contribute to the disorder’s increasing prevalence.

Trump’s comments quickly prompted reactions from global health authorities. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that while some studies have investigated possible links between paracetamol use during pregnancy and developmental conditions such as autism, the findings remain inconsistent. According to WHO, the current evidence is not strong enough to prove causation, and existing recommendations on the safe use of paracetamol in pregnancy remain unchanged. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) also said it had found no new scientific data requiring a revision of current guidelines.

On vaccines, WHO issued a clear rebuttal, reaffirming that extensive research over decades has shown no link between vaccination and autism spectrum disorders. Experts highlighted that vaccines are vital for protecting against life-threatening diseases and that false claims risk undermining public health campaigns.

Critics note that Trump did not provide any fresh scientific data to support his assertions, raising concerns about the potential spread of misinformation. Public health specialists warn that associating widely used medicines or vaccines with autism without credible evidence may create unnecessary fear among parents and pregnant women. While research on maternal health and medication use continues, authorities emphasize that both vaccines and paracetamol, when used responsibly, remain safe and essential for protecting maternal and child health.

By reviving disproven vaccine claims and questioning paracetamol safety, Trump’s remarks have reignited a contentious debate over science, politics, and public trust.