KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) has dismissed claims circulating in international media linking paracetamol use during pregnancy and childhood vaccines to autism, while also warning against unproven treatments such as folinic acid.
In a statement, the ministry stressed that current scientific evidence does not support these claims.
“Vaccines do not cause autism.
“Strong evidence from high-quality studies in multiple countries has repeatedly shown no link between vaccines and autism,” said Health director-general Datuk Dr Mahathar Abd Wahab today.
The statement also addressed concerns over paracetamol, widely used to relieve pain and fever, including among pregnant women.
“Based on current medical practice and the latest clinical guidelines, paracetamol is still considered among the safest options when taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration,” Dr Mahathar added.
MOH also cautioned against claims that folinic acid, also known as leucovorin, can treat autism.
“Scientific evidence is still limited to small studies in certain groups.
“Large-scale clinical trials are still required before this medication can be considered a safe and effective treatment for autism,” Dr Mahathar said.
The ministry urged the public not to be swayed by statements unsupported by robust scientific evidence.
“Pregnant women experiencing fever or pain may still use paracetamol when necessary, following advice from a doctor or pharmacist,” Dr Mahathar added.
MOH reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of all medications in Malaysia, and maintaining a rigorous vaccine safety monitoring system in line with current scientific evidence.
