Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urged parents to weigh the benefits of vaccinating their children amid a growing measles outbreak in west Texas. The region has reported nearly 150 cases, including the first measles-related death in the U.S. in a decade.
In an op-ed for Fox News Digital, Kennedy acknowledged the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine despite his long-standing skepticism about vaccines. He emphasized that while the choice to vaccinate is personal, the MMR vaccine remains an essential tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
“Parents should speak with their healthcare providers to explore the MMR vaccine as an option,” Kennedy wrote. “Vaccination protects not only individual children but also the broader community, particularly those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.”
As reported by The Hill, Kennedy highlighted data showing that out of the 146 confirmed cases, 79 involved unvaccinated individuals, while 62 cases were in people with unknown vaccination statuses. Only five vaccinated individuals contracted the virus.
The outbreak has been concentrated in a Mennonite community where some families reject modern medicine, though the Mennonite church does not officially oppose vaccinations. The rise in vaccine exemptions across Texas has contributed to increased vulnerability, with the statewide exemption rate climbing from 0.76% in 2014 to 2.32% in 2024, according to state data cited by the Associated Press.
Kennedy called on public health officials to engage with communities, address vaccine concerns, and provide accessible, culturally sensitive information. He pledged that under his leadership, HHS would prioritize transparency to restore public trust.
“This outbreak reminds us of the critical role public health plays in protecting lives,” Kennedy said. “By working together, we can ensure accurate information and resources reach all communities.”
