IDSA statement on MAHA Commission report

The Make Our Children Healthy Again report released today underscores the vital role of infectious diseases and public health experts in all efforts to improve children’s health. 

Reducing the burden of chronic diseases cannot be done without infectious disease care and research. Infectious diseases can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, and those who have chronic conditions are at increased risk for infections. Physicians who specialize in infectious diseases are absolutely critical to preventing and managing chronic diseases. 

Any federally funded research into the cause of autism must be based on credible science and not reach premature, inaccurate or preordained non-scientifically based conclusions. Decades of scientifically sound research have proven that vaccines do not cause autism and are not associated in any way with autism. Decisions about vaccine policies should be made by objective experts in vaccines. 

— Tina Tan, MD, FIDSA, FPIDS, FAAP — President, IDSA 

About IDSA 
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a global community of 13,000-plus clinicians, scientists and public health experts working together to solve humanity’s smallest and greatest challenges, from tiny microbes to global outbreaks. Rooted in science, committed to health equity and driven by curiosity, our compassionate and knowledgeable members safeguard the health of individuals, our communities and the world by advancing the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. Learn more at idsociety.org.