A “documentary” film that links childhood vaccines to chronic illnesses is being used to promote the myth that childhood vaccines cause sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The film misrepresents a 2020 study conducted by the Henry Ford Foundation, which has publicly disavowed and debunked the film’s claims. A consumer advocacy group known for promoting health conspiracy theories referenced the film in a post falsely claiming that 97 percent of SIDS cases occur within 10 days of vaccination. The post did not cite any supporting research. A U.S. senator who has previously promoted vaccine myths and conspiracy theories encouraged social media followers to watch the film. Responses to the posts falsely claim that SIDS only affects vaccinated babies, that vaccines are “poison,” and pediatricians who recommend vaccines shouldn’t be trusted.
Recommendation
The myth linking childhood vaccines to SIDS may lead parents to delay or refuse vaccines for their children. Health communicators may acknowledge parents’ concerns about SIDS while emphasizing that there is no evidence of a link between the condition and vaccines. Debunking messaging may explain that many large, well-designed studies have found that SIDS affects vaccinated and unvaccinated children at similar rates.
Fact-checking sources: AAP, CHOP
Communication resources: Shareable social media graphics about why pediatric vaccines are essential (English and Spanish)
