US health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s response to the recent measles outbreak has drawn sharp criticism from health experts. During a cabinet meeting, Kennedy incorrectly mentioned that the outbreak had already killed two people in Texas, adding that such outbreaks were “not unusual.” The fact is that the Texas outbreak alone accounts for nearly half of 2024’s total measles cases, which makes it a significant health concern. He, however, soon shifted his stance and called the outbreak "serious".
Taking to X, he wrote: "I recognize the serious impact of this outbreak on families, children, and healthcare workers. The measles outbreak in Texas is a call to action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health." Further, in an essay penned for Fox News on Sunday, he completely changed his tone and called the outbreak a "top priority".
