A second child with measles has died in Texas, a local hospital confirmed on Sunday, amidst a surge in cases of the infectious disease in recent weeks. The child was not vaccinated against measles and had no known underlying health conditions. This tragic event underscores the importance of vaccination.
According to Aaron Davis, a spokesperson for UMC Health System, “It is crucial to note that the child’s death highlights the risks associated with not getting vaccinated.” The hospital has expressed deep sadness over the loss.
The US Health Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has visited Texas to address the growing measles outbreak. His trip was arranged after he was informed of the child’s death. The Secretary, known for his anti-vaccination views in the past, has stated that such outbreaks are commonplace.
However, medical experts argue that vaccine skepticism is on the rise and can lead to pockets of unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals who are more susceptible to infection. Pediatricians and doctors warn parents that supplements touted by vaccine critics do not offer protection against measles.
As of Thursday, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a weekly nationwide increase of 124 measles cases, bringing the total to 607 so far this year. The majority of U.S. cases remain unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/kennedy-travel-texas-after-second-measles-related-death-axios-reports-2025-04-06