A prominent anti-vaccine activist, Brian Hooker, has contracted measles after traveling from west Texas, where he visited families affected by the recent outbreak. Despite his illness, Hooker did not alert local authorities and instead traveled home to California, potentially spreading misinformation about the virus.
Measles is a serious threat to unvaccinated or immune-compromised individuals, and outbreaks can quickly spread in anti-vaccine communities. Hooker’s case highlights the dangers of misinformation and lack of medical testing, which can contribute to the spread of diseases.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 762 cases of measles in Texas and 95 cases in New Mexico. However, experts believe the actual number of cases may be higher, with some estimates suggesting up to 3,000 cases.
Hooker visited families affected by the outbreak in west Texas and interviewed medical professionals, including Doctor Ben Edwards, who had symptomatic measles at the time. Hooker then traveled home and developed symptoms, despite being vaccinated as a child.
Medical experts warn that Hooker’s actions may have contributed to the spread of measles, particularly if he did not seek medical testing or notify authorities about his illness. The disease is highly transmissible and can cause serious harm, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants and pregnant women.
The recent measles outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination and proper medical testing. Hooker’s case serves as a reminder that misinformation and lack of medical attention can have severe consequences.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/21/anti-vaxxer-measles-texas