Kennedy Jr backtracks and says US measles outbreak is now a ‘top priority’ for health department
GuardianMAR 4
Texas Measles Death Sparks Vaccine Debate Amid Growing Outbreak
Above: Boxes and vials of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Virus Vaccine at a vaccine clinic put on by the Lubbock Public Health Department on March 1, 2025 in Lubbock, Texas. Image copyright: Jan Sonnenmair/Stringer/Getty Images News/Getty Images
The Facts
A measles outbreak in Texas has resulted in 146 confirmed cases since late January 2025, with the first US measles fatality in a decade reported when an unvaccinated school-aged child died in the state's South Plains region.
Of the 146 cases, 79 individuals were unvaccinated, 62 had unknown vaccination status, and five had received the MMR vaccine, with 116 cases occurring in individuals under 18 years of age.
The outbreak has primarily affected a Mennonite community in Texas that has historically shown vaccine hesitancy, with some districts reporting vaccination exemption rates as high as 47.95%.
The Spin
Narrative A
The measles vaccine is crucial for public health protection, with a proven track record of preventing severe illness and death. Vaccination rates must be maintained above 95 percent for effective community protection, and recent declines in immunization have created dangerous vulnerability to outbreaks.
Narrative B
Personal medical freedom is paramount. Good nutrition and alternative approaches can effectively manage many disease symptoms, and the decision to vaccinate should remain a personal choice without mandates. Kennedy has provided his perspective while affirming that the vaccination choice is a personal one — demonstrating his balanced and reasonable approach to this issue.