UAE Autism Society rejects claims linking autism to paracetamol or vaccines
- Last updated: October 9, 2025 | 16:02
The Emirates Autism Society and the Emirates Society for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (ESCAM) have reaffirmed their commitment to evidence-based practices, as well as to safeguarding the health of children and families in the UAE and beyond. They clarified that there is no scientific evidence proving a link between autism and the use of paracetamol or vaccination.
The division explained via its official social media account that discussions have recently taken place regarding a potential association between paracetamol (acetaminophen) use and autism. However, current and reliable scientific evidence does not support this. Extensive scientific reviews and studies have not revealed any substantial or consistent evidence to suggest that paracetamol use during pregnancy or in early childhood causes autism.
It was explained that issuing a warning against the unjustified use of paracetamol could harm public health, given that it is a safe and effective medication for treating fever and pain when used correctly. It also added that health recommendations must be based on large-scale, repeated and high-quality studies while research is ongoing.
With regard to the link between autism and vaccines, EAS emphasised that this link has been falsely claimed in the past and that the scientific consensus is clear. Extensive research involving millions of children worldwide has confirmed that vaccines do not cause autism. Major global health organisations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have also reaffirmed the safety and effectiveness of vaccines that protect against serious diseases, such as measles, which continues to cause outbreaks in communities with low vaccination rates.
Recent discussions have addressed the use of folinic acid (Leucovorin), a form of folate, as an alternative to traditional folic acid in the treatment of autism. It explained that some studies have indicated its potential benefits for a specific group of children with autism who have problems with folate metabolism, particularly in cases of folate deficiency in the brain or where there are antibodies to folate receptors present. However, folinic acid is not considered a cure for autism, and larger, more accurate studies are needed before it can be widely recommended.
The EAS urged families to discuss treatment options with their healthcare providers, and to avoid relying on unproven claims or unregulated practices. The Society reaffirmed its strong support for routine childhood vaccinations as a cornerstone of public health and urged families and professionals to base their decisions on reliable scientific evidence and official health guidelines rather than rumours or unproven claims. It further encouraged continued research into the complex causes of autism, particularly in the areas of genetics, neurodevelopment and early detection, while rejecting misinformation that hinders real progress.
In conclusion, the Emirates Autism Society emphasised that autism is not caused by vaccines or paracetamol, nor is it cured by folinic acid. The society reassured families that, when used according to doctors' recommendations, medications and vaccines can be used safely, and reiterated its commitment to raising awareness and supporting children with autism, ensuring they receive timely recognition, acceptance and care.