Research has revealed that high fever during pregnancy can pose serious risks to unborn children, a finding initially observed by Professor Marshall J. Edwards at the University of Sydney in the 1970s. Edwards noted that hyperthermic cows frequently experienced miscarriages or birthed abnormal calves. This observation led to the understanding that fever can act as a teratogen, potentially causing birth defects or abnormalities in fetuses. Today, this crucial knowledge is under threat due to misinformation propagated by former US President Donald Trump regarding fever treatment.
In recent years, studies have shown that elevated body temperature during early pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of miscarriage and congenital conditions such as neural tube defects, cleft palates, and heart defects. According to Debra Kennedy, an Associate Professor at the University of New South Wales School of Women’s and Children’s Health, understanding the implications of fever has been essential for improving maternal care.
Trump’s unfounded criticisms of widely accepted treatments, specifically the use of acetaminophen or paracetamol—known as Tylenol in the US and Panadol in Australia—have raised alarm among health professionals. These medications are among the most studied and commonly used drugs globally, yet Trump has claimed they may cause autism, a statement not supported by the overwhelming majority of scientific research.
Experts argue that this rhetoric contributes to a broader pattern of undermining scientific evidence, particularly regarding women’s health. The claims made by Trump and his administration not only spread fear but also misrepresent autism as a condition that requires intervention rather than acceptance. Such narratives have further complicated the discourse surrounding neurodiversity, with numerous advocates emphasizing that autism is not a disease to be cured.
The implications of this misinformation extend beyond individual health, potentially affecting healthcare policies and practices. As misinformation gains traction, the health and safety of pregnant women and their babies are placed at risk.
The ongoing battle over science and public health, especially in the context of women’s reproductive rights, reflects a deeper ideological struggle. The manipulation of scientific facts for political gain has broad consequences, affecting public perception and trust in established medical advice.
As the conversation around fever treatment becomes increasingly polarized, the need for evidence-based information is critical. Health professionals and researchers continue to advocate for the safe use of paracetamol in managing fever during pregnancy, reinforcing the importance of relying on scientific consensus to guide health decisions.
In an age where misinformation can spread rapidly, the responsibility lies with both public figures and the media to ensure accurate representations of scientific findings. The health of future generations depends on it.
