US measles cases hit 35-year high under RFK Jr
More than 5,400 measles cases have been reported across the United States as health officials warn the country could lose its disease-free status this week.
Outbreak affects nearly every state
Over 5,400 cases have been recorded nationwide according to Johns Hopkins University vaccine tracker data. Outbreaks are currently affecting nearly every state in the country. This marks the worst outbreak seen in 35 years of monitoring. Dr Paul Offit from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia called this a tremendous step backwards for public health.
Panel reviews elimination status evidence
Soon, an independent group comprising eight specialists representing the Pan American Health Organization intends to examine existing evidence. Their director must make a final decision regarding the nations disease-free standing. Losing this status would place the United States alongside Canada where transmission has returned. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also faced significant staffing reductions recently.
Vaccination rates drive transmission spread
Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr faces criticism over his approach to vaccines and policy changes. Public health officials acknowledge vaccine hesitancy existed before he took office in the Trump administration. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide approximately 97 percent protection against the virus.
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