Exploring experiences of vaccine-related and alternative treatments for individuals with autism: A qualitative study

Some alternative treatments wrongly suggest that routine childhood vaccines cause autism resulting in vaccine skepticism and false claims about curing autism. In the present study we explore the experiences of vaccine-related and alternative treatments of autistic individuals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with autistic adults (n = 3), parents of autistic children (n = 5) and parents of autistic adults (n = 5). Thematic analysis showed five themes: (1) reasons for choosing alternative treatment, (2) treatment content, (3) experiences with alternative care, (4) outcomes of the vaccine-related treatment and (5) future directions for treating autism. Both positive (holistic approach, time and attention) and negative aspects (false claims about vaccines and curability of autism) were found. Improved support and guidelines could reduce ineffective and harmful alternative treatments for autism. •Autistic individuals have positive and negative experiences with alternative care.•Alternative treatments offer a holistic approach, time and attention.•Alternative treatments make false claims about autism.•Guidelines for autism treatment should be improved.