The Hospitalist - An Official Publication of Society of Hospital Medicine

“Our organizations, representing physicians, nurses, medical professionals, scientists, pharmacists, public health, patients and families, are alarmed by the recent White House Executive Order that advises, without evidence, reducing and spacing out recommended childhood vaccines.

“As measles surges across the United States and as respiratory virus season approaches, families deserve clear guidance from federal health officials that is grounded in science and aimed at protecting children’s health. Instead, the White House released an Executive Order that undermines confidence in childhood vaccinations and recommends changes that would leave children less protected and families more confused.

“In addition, while the Executive Order does not address autism at all, administration officials’ remarks around the release of the order elevated dangerous falsehoods about vaccines and autism. Elevating these debunked claims does nothing to support families of children with autism. In fact, it diverts resources away from promising areas of research.

“Our message for parents and caregivers is clear: if you have questions about vaccines, or any other aspect of your child’s health or development, talk with your child’s clinician.”