The measles crisis in Texas: “Vaccines protect children,” says Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in pro-vaccine message for parents

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a long -term vaccine critic and now American secretary Health and human services (HHS), took an unexpected position by approving the measles vaccine against a growing outbreak in Texas. In an option for Fox News Digital, Kennedy recognized the seriousness of the situation, which led to 146 confirmed cases and the first rujeola death in the US over a decade.

Public health vs. personal choice

KennedyWho has previously asked vaccine The mandates and the pharmaceutical industry have adopted a more measured approach in its statement. He addressed his parents directly, urging him to consult his medical service providers about the MMR vaccine. “The vaccination decision is a personal one. The vaccines not only protect individuals from measles, but also contribute to the immunity of the community, protecting those who are not able to be vaccinated for medical reasons,” he explained.

His observations mark a notable change from his past rhetoric who has fed skepticism about vaccines.

Vaccine awareness and public involvement

Kennedy underlined the importance of public education on vaccinesurging medical service providers and community leaders to share accurate information. “We have to engage with communities to understand their concerns, to provide culturally competent education and to make the vaccines easily accessible to all those who want them,” he said.

The State Health Department of Texas (DSHS) confirmed that 116 of cases involves people under 18, 79 being unvaccinated and 62 having an unknown vaccination status. “Tragically, this outbreak claimed the life of a school -old child. The first fatality related to the United States over a decade.” Kennedy said.

Call for action for public health

Kennedy praised health professionals for their dedication in the outbreak management. “Their dedication and resistance are commendable and deserve unwavering support,” he wrote.

Kennedy requested collective actions to prevent future outbreaks. “The Texas measles outbreak is a call to action for us all to reaffirm our commitment to public health,” he said. “Under my leadership, HHS is and will always be engaged in radical transparency to regain public confidence in his health agencies.”

Understanding the risks of measles

Kennedy warned about the extremely contagious nature of measles and serious health risks, especially for unvaccinated people. “Greatness spreads through direct contact with infectious drops when an infected person breathes, cough or sneezing,” he explained. “Most cases are mild, but rare complications can be severe, including pneumonia, blindness and encephalitis.”

Federal response to the outbreak

To contain the outbreak, HHS directed Centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) and the Administration for Strategic Preparation and Response (ASP) to support Texas health officials. “HHS efforts include providing technical assistance, laboratory support, vaccines and therapeutic drugs, as needed,” Kennedy said. He confirmed the continuous collaboration with the Governor Texas, Greg Abbott and the state health officials, saying: “I spoke with the Greg Abbott government and the health officials in Texas, committing them to additional support they need to put an end to this outbreak.”

Nutritional and therapeutic measures

Although there is no antiviral treatment for measles, Kennedy has highlighted the updated guidance of CDC on supplementation with vitamin A. “Studies have discovered that vitamin A can dramatically reduce the mortality of measles,” he said. He also stressed the role of good nutrition in strengthening immunity, mentioning that “vitamins A, C and D and foods rich in vitamins B12, C and E should be part of a balanced diet.”