Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addressed the measles epidemic in the U.S. during President Donald Trump’s Cabinet meeting, acknowledging over 100 infections and one death in Texas. Kennedy downplayed the resurgence, stating that measles outbreaks occur every year. However, the death of an unvaccinated child in Texas is the first in the U.S. since 2015. Despite concerns about his response to the outbreak, Kennedy has not taken significant action, according to an HHS official.
President Trump’s appointment of Kennedy reflects his own history with vaccines and pandemic diseases. The administration’s cutbacks in foreign and domestic efforts to combat viruses could pose a risk to Republican lawmakers in the midterm elections if an outbreak occurs. Trump’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic impacted his re-election campaign, with some supporters questioning vaccine safety and efficacy.
Kennedy, known for his skepticism of vaccines, has criticized the MMR vaccine, citing concerns about its effectiveness and safety. The majority of Americans support vaccines, but Kennedy’s refusal to endorse the measles vaccine has raised alarm among some lawmakers.
Overall, Kennedy’s response to the measles outbreak has drawn criticism, while some Republican lawmakers blame others, such as Dr. Fauci and President Biden, for vaccine hesitancy and the spread of the disease. The White House has expressed confidence in Kennedy’s ability to address public health concerns.
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