Introduction to the Outbreak
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited the epicenter of Texas’ still-growing measles outbreak on Sunday, the same day a funeral was held for a second young child who was not vaccinated and died from a measles-related illness.
Kennedy said in a social media post that he was working to “control the outbreak” and went to Gaines County to comfort the families who have buried two young children.
The Outbreak’s Current Status
The outbreak, which started in late January, continues to swell — with nearly 500 cases in Texas alone, plus cases from the outbreak believed to have spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Mexico. Seminole is the epicenter of the outbreak. The second young child died Thursday from “what the child’s doctor described as measles pulmonary failure,” and did not have underlying health conditions, the Texas State Department of State Health Services said Sunday in a news release.
Response to the Outbreak
Kennedy, an anti-vaccine advocate before ascending to the role of nation’s top health secretary earlier this year, has resisted urging widespread vaccinations as the measles outbreak has worsened under his watch. On Sunday, however, he said in a lengthy statement posted on X that it was “the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles.” The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine has been used safely for more than 60 years and is 97% effective against measles after two doses.
Medical Perspective
Dr. Manisha Patel, CDC incident manager, said in a Sunday news conference that the MMR vaccine is the best way to protect against measles. She also told parents in Gaines County that it was important not to “delay care” for a child who is sick with measles. “Call your doctor and make sure you’re talking to a health care professional who can guide you on those next steps,” Patel said.
Government Response
Asked about the outbreak Sunday by reporters on Air Force One, Trump said, “they’re doing reports on it,” adding that if the outbreak “progresses, we’ll will have to take action very strongly.” Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy from Louisiana, a liver doctor whose vote helped cinch Kennedy’s confirmation, called Sunday for stronger messaging from health officials in a post on X. “Everyone should be vaccinated! There is no treatment for measles. No benefit to getting measles,” he wrote.
Misinformation and Its Impact
Misinformation about how to prevent and treat measles is hindering a robust public health response, including claims about vitamin A supplements that have been pushed by Kennedy and holistic medicine supporters despite doctors’ warnings that it should be given under a physician’s orders and that too much can be dangerous. Doctors at Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock, where the first measles death occurred, say they’ve treated fewer than 10 children for liver issues from vitamin A toxicity.
Expert Opinion
Dr. Peter Marks, the Food and Drug Administration’s former vaccine chief, said responsibility for the death rests with Kennedy and his staff. Marks was forced out of the FDA after disagreements with Kennedy over vaccine safety. “This is the epitome of an absolute needless death,” Marks told The Associated Press in an interview Sunday. “These kids should get vaccinated — that’s how you prevent people from dying of measles.”
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Texas and its surrounding areas is a serious public health concern that requires immediate attention and action. With the number of cases continuing to rise and more deaths reported, it is essential that individuals, especially those in the affected areas, take necessary precautions, including getting vaccinated. The measles vaccine has been proven to be safe and effective, and its widespread use is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease.
FAQs
- What is the current status of the measles outbreak in Texas?
- The outbreak, which started in late January, continues to swell with nearly 500 cases in Texas alone, plus cases from the outbreak believed to have spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Mexico.
- How effective is the measles vaccine?
- The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine has been used safely for more than 60 years and is 97% effective against measles after two doses.
- What is the government’s response to the outbreak?
- The government, including Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other officials, is working to control the outbreak and has urged individuals to get vaccinated.
- What is the impact of misinformation on the outbreak?
- Misinformation about how to prevent and treat measles is hindering a robust public health response and has led to the misuse of vitamin A supplements, which can be dangerous if not used properly.
- What is the medical community’s stance on vaccination?
- The medical community, including experts like Dr. Manisha Patel and Dr. Peter Marks, strongly recommends vaccination as the best way to protect against measles and prevent its spread.
