Changed CDC communication on vaccinations and autism reduces vaccine willingness and trust
A changed official communication from the US health authority CDC on the subject of vaccinations and autism leads to measurably negative effects on public perception. This is shown by a large-scale online study by the University of Vienna with almost 3,000 participants from the USA.
The study looked at the impact of the CDC communication, which was changed in November 2025. While it used to be clearly communicated that vaccinations were neither causally nor statistically related to autism, the new version emphasizes alleged uncertainties and calls for further investigation. Those who read this amended version considered side effects of vaccinations to be more likely, showed greater concerns about vaccination safety and indicated a lower willingness to be vaccinated.
In addition, the amended communication led to a significant loss of trust in the CDC and promoted approval of typical strategies of science denial, such as selective citation of studies or unrealistic demands for evidence.
The researchers, led by psychologist Robert Böhm from the University of Vienna, emphasise that the type of communication itself can be a risk factor. It is particularly problematic when uncertainty is suddenly brought to the fore when it comes to topics with a broad scientific consensus. The results are not only relevant for the vaccination topic, but also show broader social consequences.
The authors therefore plead for clear guidelines for health communication. Important changes in official embassies should be transparently documented, strictly evidence-based and, if possible, checked in advance for their understanding by the population. Uncertainties should only be communicated in the context of the overall state of research and with clear recommendations for action.
The study has been published in the renowned journal Science . It underlines the great responsibility of health authorities in the formulation of public communications.
Original paper:
Böhm, R., Schneider, A., Betsch, C. & Lilleholt, L. (2026) CDC communication undermines trust in vaccines. In Science.
DOI: 10.1126/science.aef5320
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Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR
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