Summary
Texas is experiencing MMR vaccine shortages amid growing measles outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, which have caused 198 cases, 23 hospitalizations, and two deaths.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has complicated the response by promoting unproven remedies like vitamin A instead of vaccines, calling vaccination a “personal choice.”
The CDC has provided 2,000 doses and sent experts to Texas, but health experts warn the outbreak has “momentum” and needs a major vaccination campaign, as some areas now have immunization rates well below the 95% needed for herd immunity.
We should be glad that some parents are finally deciding to protect their children from absolute misery and possible death.