Support for the MMR Vaccine

During his visit, Kennedy expressed his support for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. He stated on social media, “The most effective way to prevent the spread of measles is the MMR vaccine.” This statement follows his interaction with the families affected by this outbreak, notably in the Mennonite community where the virus has spread significantly.

Public Health Responses

In light of the growing concerns related to the outbreak, Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician from Louisiana, called for increased clarity from health officials. He emphasized, “Everyone should be vaccinated! There is no treatment for measles. No benefit to getting measles,” highlighting the urgency of vaccination efforts to prevent further fatalities.

Senator Cassidy has invited Kennedy to discuss these issues in front of his health committee; however, there has been no confirmation from Kennedy regarding his attendance.

Background on the Current Outbreak

The measles outbreak in Texas has resulted in 499 confirmed cases since late January, with a nationwide count of 642 cases across 22 states. Particularly, Gaines County has borne the brunt of this outbreak, affecting the unvaccinated population, especially within the Mennonite community.

According to reports, the eight-year-old victim of measles, Daisy Hildebrand, was not vaccinated and passed away due to measles pulmonary failure. Kennedy also met with the family of another unvaccinated child, six-year-old Kayley Fehr, who died in February from the disease.

The Importance of Vaccination

The MMR vaccine has a longstanding history of safety and effectiveness, having been utilized for over 60 years. It boasts a 97% effectiveness rate against measles after two doses. Despite previous controversies and skepticism surrounding vaccinations, studies have consistently shown that vaccinations do not correlate with increased autism cases, a theory discredited by comprehensive research.

Kennedy has expressed intentions to review the CDC’s recommended vaccination schedule, a move that has raised concerns given his previous stance against vaccines through his organization, Children’s Health Defense. However, his recent endorsement of the MMR vaccine comes at a crucial time as public health officials seek to manage this outbreak.

Future Actions and Recommendations

In response to the ongoing measles crisis, Kennedy has mobilized CDC resources to assist Texas in vaccinating those in need, with plans to expand these efforts into additional affected regions. He has made commitments to collaborate with state officials, including Governor Abbott, to further address the outbreak.