KFF Survey Reveals Public Trust in Health Information: Insights on Tylenol Autism Link and Vaccine Policies
Tylenol Use During Pregnancy Sparks Debate on Autism Risk
Controversial Claims on Tylenol and Autism
Recent statements from the Trump administration have ignited a public debate by claiming that the use of Tylenol during pregnancy might increase the risk of autism in children. Despite the lack of scientific evidence to support this claim, a significant portion of the population—77%—has reported awareness of the statement, according to Emegypt’s latest Tracking Poll on Health Information and Trust.
Among those surveyed, only 4% believe the claim is “definitely true,” while 35% say it is “definitely false.” The majority remain uncertain, with demographics across the board expressing doubt about its validity. Political affiliation seems to play a role, with most Republicans, particularly over half of Republican women, considering the claim “probably” or “definitely true.”
Public Opinion on HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The poll reveals a divided opinion on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s role as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. A majority of 59% disapprove of his job performance, and 62% disapprove of his vaccine policy management. This division closely follows party lines, with Republican supporters showing more favor than Democrats.
Only a third of adults (35%) express trust in Kennedy to provide reliable vaccine information, a number that varies greatly between Republicans (67%) and Democrats (13%). Public trust in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has similarly declined, influenced largely by waning confidence among Democrats and independents.
Vaccine Policy and Public Trust
As trust in traditional health agencies declines, alternative sources maintain public confidence. Physicians, the American Medical Association (AMA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) continue to be trusted for vaccine information, despite their removal from federal vaccine workgroups. Around 64% trust the AMA, while 69% of parents trust the AAP, indicating continued reliance on these organizations.
| Source | Trust Percentage |
|---|---|
| Doctor/Healthcare Provider | 83% |
| American Medical Association (AMA) | 64% |
| American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) | 69% |
| CDC | 50% |
| Robert F. Kennedy Jr. | 35% |
State Vaccine Mandates and Parental Views
The decision by Florida to become the first state to end all vaccine mandates, including those for school children, has prompted significant public discussion. Approximately 70% of parents oppose removing state public school vaccine requirements. However, support varies with political ideology; half of Republican parents endorse removing these mandates compared to 13% of Democratic parents.
Parents are split on whether childhood vaccination is a societal responsibility or a personal choice. While 56% view it as a responsibility to protect public health, 44% see it as a personal decision, with Republican parents more likely to prefer personal choice.
Examining Partisan Differences in Vaccine Policies
As states explore their roles in shaping vaccine policy, public trust in state officials appears influenced by partisan alignment with state leadership. Democrats in states governed by Democratic leaders exhibit more trust in state vaccine guidance than those in Republican-led states. Conversely, Republican trust in state guidance is higher in states with Republican leaders.
- 64% of Democrats back states recommending vaccines not federally endorsed.
- 28% of Republicans support such state vaccine initiatives.
This partisan dynamic contributes to the complexity and variability of public opinion on vaccine guidance.
