Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services, recently addressed the deadly measles outbreak in the Southwest, stating that more cases are expected to occur. However, his comments on vaccination have raised concerns among experts.
Kennedy told Fox News host Sean Hannity that while his department encourages people to vaccinate, he believes in “freedom-of-choice.” He emphasized that vaccine manufacturers should be transparent and provide informed choice for individuals who do not want a vaccine. Kennedy also promoted vitamin A as a potential treatment option, citing studies that suggest it can help against serious disease and death.
However, experts have disputed Kennedy’s claims. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the MMR vaccine is much safer than contracting measles, mumps, or rubella. Additionally, research suggests that vitamin A supplements are recommended for children with measles who are at an increased risk of vitamin A deficiency, but they do not prevent the disease in unvaccinated individuals.
Kennedy’s comments on nutrition have also been criticized. He claimed that historically, people who died from measles had underlying conditions and were malnourished, but this is a misconception. The vaccine was introduced in 1963, and programs like WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) began in 1972.
The CDC has issued an official health advisory on the outbreak, emphasizing vaccination as the most important tool for preventing measles. With two reported deaths in Texas and over 223 confirmed cases, the situation is dire. The agency warns that more cases are expected as the outbreak continues to expand rapidly.
Source: https://people.com/rfk-jr-measles-outbreak-promotes-vitamin-a-vaccine-freedom-of-choice-11695420