Hanson Reaffirms Support for Immunizations, Condemns False Information from CDC

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Matt Hanson, D-Montgomery, reasserted his dedication to vaccinations, evidence-based facts, and respect for individuals with developmental differences on Friday, while pushing back against the Trump Administration and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) linked vaccines and autism on its website.

“The continued distribution of inaccurate information and reckless spreading of junk science from the Trump administration linking vaccinations—which are scientifically proven to be safe and effective—to autism is extremely dangerous,” said Hanson. “Several studies have shown no link between the two. Suggesting otherwise promotes a culture of misinformation and distrust.”

The CDC has recently added language to their website confirming false claims that connect immunizations to autism. During the fall veto session, Hanson co-sponsored House Resolution 507, condemning false statements made by Kennedy and maintaining support for doctors, scientists, and researchers. Following the changes to the CDC website, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) released a statement reiterating the danger of diseases for unvaccinated individuals and debunking the CDC’s claims. For more information about vaccines, visit the IDPH Immunization page.

Hanson’s resolution also ensures respect for individuals with autism. This misinformation perpetuates harmful stigma around autistic individuals and their families and does nothing to increase a scientific or cultural understanding of developmental differences.

“I’m proud to live in a state that remains committed to evidence-based practices. That commitment is important because we’re talking about people’s health and basic human dignity,” Hanson said. “Protecting those against those who’d make them into political footballs is what currently sets Illinois apart from other states that want to roll over. I highly encourage everyone in our community to have conversations with your doctor if you have concerns, rather than listening to the unfounded evidence presented by the CDC.”