By Charles Switzer
3:09am PDT, Apr 12, 2025
Congressman Attributes Measles Outbreak to Immigration
During a CNN town hall, conservative Rep.
Ryan McKenzie linked the recent measles outbreaks in the U.S. to
illegal immigration.
"Many of these instances that are coming into our country are from illegal immigrants who have crossed the border with no checks, no actual health records, and they are bringing these diseases into our country," he said.
"So, as a father of a 1-year-old who is going through his vaccine regimen right now, that is something that I'm choosing for my son. We are getting him vaccinated just like I was vaccinated," he continued. "In the case of the measles vaccine, that's something that's been long established. And I think we have a fairly good track record of evidence to prove that that is safe and effective."
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West Texas Community Severely Affected
The most significant outbreak occurred in West Texas and particularly impacted a Mennonite community that traditionally avoids vaccinations.
More than 500 individuals have been infected, and three people — including two elementary school-aged children — have died from measles-related complications.
All three were unvaccinated.
Health officials note that the actual number of cases may be higher, as official counts only include laboratory-confirmed cases.
Health Secretary's Mixed Messaging on Vaccinations
Health and Human Services Secretary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who's known for his vaccine skepticism, has provided inconsistent messages regarding the measles vaccine.
In an interview with
CBS News, he said that he and his department "encourage people to get the measles vaccine" but added that "the government should not be mandating those."
Kennedy has also promoted alternative treatments such as vitamin A supplementation and cod liver oil, which lack scientific backing for measles treatment.
Public Health Experts Advocate for Clear Guidance
Public health professionals have expressed concerns over the federal response to the outbreak.
Dr. Sue Kressly, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, emphasized the need for consistent, science-based messaging about measles vaccination, saying, "That is the number one message we're trying to put in front of everyone."
Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, highlighted the necessity for the CDC to conduct frequent press conferences and issue multiple press releases urging Americans to vaccinate their kids.
National Health Officials Urge Immunization
In light of the outbreaks, public health experts continue to emphasize the
importance of vaccination to prevent further spread of measles.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is both safe and highly effective, recommending it for all children and at-risk adults.
