Hawaii Governor Urges Action Against Measles Outbreaks Threatening Children

Hawaii Governor Dr. Josh Green warns of a growing measles threat to American children, citing recent outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and beyond. As a former emergency room doctor and family physician with 20 years of experience, he advocates for a swift, science-based response to stop the spread of this highly contagious virus.

Measles has claimed dozens of lives worldwide in recent years, including the first child death from measles in over a decade in Texas. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 14 states have vaccination rates below 90%, making them vulnerable to outbreaks. Hawaii Governor Green urges the Department of Health and Human Services to launch an extensive vaccination campaign focusing on education, community engagement, accessibility, and responsible public policy.

The measles vaccine has saved millions of lives worldwide since its introduction in 1963. However, declining vaccination rates are fueled by misinformation, skepticism, and complacency. The governor emphasizes that vaccination is not a “personal choice,” but a collective responsibility to protect vulnerable people. He advocates for clear information, community-based approaches, accessible vaccines, and strong public policies to maintain herd immunity.

Governor Green urges swift action to prevent further suffering and deaths among American children. With the data and resources available, he believes we can stop the deadly spread of measles by launching a sustained emergency vaccination campaign in states with low vaccination rates and greatest vulnerability.

Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/hawaii-governor-urgent-call-action-130035260.html