Additional Coverage:
- RFK Jr. after Texas visit: MMR vaccine ‘most effective’ way to prevent measles spread (usatoday.com)
Lubbock, TX – A second Texas child has died from measles, prompting a visit from U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F.
Kennedy Jr. The child, of school age, was unvaccinated and had no underlying health conditions.
This marks the second pediatric measles fatality in Texas since the outbreak began in late January.
Kennedy visited Gaines County to offer condolences to the grieving families and confirmed the scope of the outbreak: 642 cases across 22 states, with 499 in Texas alone. He emphasized the MMR vaccine as the most effective preventative measure and noted he had been in contact with Governor Greg Abbott, coordinating the deployment of CDC teams to the state.
In a surprising move for the often vaccine-hesitant Kennedy, he urged parents to consider the measles vaccine, calling it a “call to action.” This statement was met with approval from unexpected corners, including London-based infectious disease specialist Dr. Neil Stone, who expressed encouragement at Kennedy’s stance.
The recent surge in cases brings the Texas total to 481 since late January, with a 15% increase in just three days. Nationwide, the CDC reports 607 cases, a significant jump from the 285 reported in 2024. Other states affected include Ohio, New Mexico, and Kansas.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus. While most cases present with fever, cough, runny nose, and a spreading rash, serious complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death can occur. The virus spreads easily through airborne droplets.
Health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination, emphasizing that the MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection. They also caution against relying on unproven remedies and urge anyone suspecting measles to isolate themselves and contact a healthcare provider immediately.