Health Dept Says Measles Vaccine Is a Must for Every Kid
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Recommends MMR Vaccine for All Children
The department headed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that it recommends the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine for all children. This statement was made during a lengthy Senate Finance Committee hearing where the Secretary faced tough questions from Democrats.
Shift in Position
Kennedy’s comment marks a clear shift from his earlier stance. He used to say that the MMR vaccine was “a personal choice” and urged parents to do their own research. In previous remarks, he had even avoided giving direct advice on whether newborns should be vaccinated.Still Emphasizes Hygiene
Despite this change about measles, Kennedy still argues that better hygiene and sanitation—not vaccines—were mainly responsible for the drop in deaths from infectious diseases in the 20th century. He cited a 2000 study in Pediatrics to support this view, but the study also highlighted how vaccines eliminated illnesses such as polio and measles.
Hearing Highlights Tension
During the hearing, Senator Bill Cassidy asked Kennedy about the study’s author. After Kennedy provided the name, Cassidy showed the paper and pointed out that it had been taken out of context. The discussion highlighted a tension between Kennedy’s past criticisms and his current official position.CDC Endorsement
The Secretary also noted that the Centers for Disease Control listed vaccination as one of “ten great public health achievements” of the 20th century. This inclusion underscores the broader consensus that vaccines have played a critical role in public health.Balancing Act
Kennedy’s recent statements suggest he is aligning his department’s messaging with mainstream medical guidance, even as he maintains some of his earlier skeptical views on the impact of vaccines versus sanitation.
