Measles Outbreak Spurs Scrutiny of Vaccine Messaging

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced bipartisan scrutiny in congressional hearings for his vaccine skepticism during the largest U.S. measles outbreak in decades, which has resulted in over 1,000 cases and multiple child deaths, primarily among the unvaccinated. When questioned, Kennedy stated he would 'probably' vaccinate his children against measles but advised Americans not to look to him for medical guidance, emphasizing his preference for presenting data over direct advice. Lawmakers pressed Kennedy on the CDC's advisory role within HHS as concerns about his public messaging mounted. Public confidence in the administration's outbreak response remains low, with only 31% approving according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, though 86% of Americans view the MMR vaccine as safe for children. Experts caution that Kennedy's mixed messages may be fueling vaccine hesitancy, even as the government plans a substantial vaccine initiative. The outbreak has jeopardized the U.S.'s measles elimination status and intensified debate over public health, political leadership, and misinformation.