A measles outbreak in Texas has raised concerns about vaccination after National Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr visited a funeral for an unvaccinated child who died from the illness. The child, 8-year-old Daisy Hildebrand, was buried on Sunday after her death. Her father, Pete Hildebrand, claimed that Kennedy never discussed the effectiveness of vaccines during their meeting.
Hildebrand’s remarks came as attention was focused on Kennedy’s visit to the funeral and his recent statements about unconventional vaccination methods. Kennedy has expressed skepticism towards vaccines but had previously stated that the MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles spread.
Despite this, Kennedy recently praised two individuals who have chosen not to get vaccinated against measles. Medical professionals emphasize that getting a vaccine does not mean the body failed and vaccines work by reducing illness severity and potentially preventing death.
The outbreak has claimed three lives in Texas and several other states, with over 605 cases reported nationwide. Experts warn that the US collective outbreak could continue for months or even a year if no more aggressive response is taken. Kennedy will testify before the Senate’s health committee on Thursday, despite his well-documented vaccine skepticism being confirmed by the Senate vote of 52-48.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/08/texas-funeral-measles-vaccine-rfk-jr