A persistent claim circulates online suggesting that Amish children do not get autism because they do not vaccinate. This claim is used to argue that vaccines cause autism. However, both premises of this argument are factually incorrect. Amish children do get autism, and many Amish families do vaccinate their children.

Do Amish Children Get Autism?

Yes. Autism exists in Amish communities. A 2010 study by researchers at the University of Virginia examined an Amish community in Pennsylvania and identified cases of autism spectrum disorder. A follow-up study published in 2014 found that ASD prevalence in the Amish community studied was lower than the national average but definitely present.

The lower reported prevalence likely reflects several factors:

• Underdiagnosis: Amish communities have limited access to developmental pediatricians and diagnostic specialists. Many autistic individuals in these communities may never receive a formal diagnosis.
• Cultural differences in reporting: Amish communities may describe developmental differences in different terms or handle them within the community rather than seeking outside medical evaluation.
• Genetic factors: Small, insular communities may have different genetic profiles that affect prevalence rates for various conditions, both increasing some and decreasing others.

Are Amish Children Vaccinated?

Contrary to the popular claim, many Amish families do vaccinate their children. Vaccination rates vary significantly between Amish communities. A 2011 study published in Pediatrics found that while Amish vaccination rates were lower than the general population, 68% of Amish parents surveyed had vaccinated their children, and only 14% had refused all vaccines.

The Amish are not a monolithic group. Different communities have different practices regarding healthcare, technology, and engagement with the outside world. Some Amish families fully vaccinate, some partially vaccinate, and some decline vaccines entirely.

Vaccines Do Not Cause Autism

The claim that vaccines cause autism has been thoroughly investigated and debunked. Key evidence includes:

• A 2019 Danish study of over 650,000 children found no association between the MMR vaccine and autism
• A 2014 meta-analysis of over 1.2 million children found no link between vaccines and autism
• The original 1998 study by Andrew Wakefield that sparked the claim was retracted due to fraudulent data, and Wakefield lost his medical license
• Autism rates have continued to rise even in populations with declining vaccination rates, further contradicting the claimed link

Major medical organizations worldwide, including the CDC, WHO, American Academy of Pediatrics, and National Institutes of Health, all confirm that vaccines do not cause autism.

Why This Myth Persists

The “Amish anomaly” myth persists because it offers a simple, appealing explanation for a complex condition. Autism’s causes are primarily genetic and not fully understood, which naturally leads to speculation. Parents want answers, and the timing of autism diagnosis (often around the same age as routine vaccinations) creates a false sense of connection.

It is completely understandable to have questions about your child’s health and development. The best approach is to discuss concerns with your pediatrician, who can provide evidence-based guidance.

Focus on What Helps

Rather than searching for a cause to avoid, families affected by autism benefit most from focusing on effective support. ABA therapy is the gold standard intervention for autism, with decades of research supporting its effectiveness in building communication, social skills, and independence.

At Treetop, we help families across 11 states access quality ABA therapy. Reach out today to learn how we can support your child. Most insurance plans are accepted.