A measles outbreak spreading across West Texas and two other states has killed two people and infected nearly 260, marking HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s first major public health crisis. Critics say his response has been insufficient and misleading.
Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic, has downplayed the outbreak on Fox News, claiming vitamin A and cod liver oil are alternatives to the measles vaccine, the only proven method of prevention. He also suggested natural immunity from infection is superior to vaccination.
Public health experts warn that his statements undermine trust in vaccines, particularly among vulnerable communities. Dr. William Moss of Johns Hopkins stressed that vaccination is the only way to stop the outbreak.
Despite the CDC deploying infectious disease experts to Texas, Kennedy has focused on alternative treatments, stating they have been “ignored” by health agencies. His remarks have drawn criticism from public health leaders, including former Trump official Brett Giroir, who warned that vitamin A is not a reliable treatment in the U.S.
Experts fear that Kennedy’s stance could delay containment efforts, fuel vaccine hesitancy, and worsen the outbreak nationwide.
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