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Hadisur Rahman, Jadetimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia

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Image Source: AFP/Tang Chhin Sothy

In a surprising shift, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publicly endorsed the MMR vaccine as "the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles," following a visit to West Texas, where a second unvaccinated child recently died from the disease.

Kennedy’s statement, shared via a post on X (formerly Twitter), marked a stark contrast to his controversial history of vaccine skepticism. “The most effective way to prevent the spread of measles is the MMR vaccine,” he wrote, acknowledging the scientific consensus on the issue.

The response was swift and divided. Vaccine advocates cautiously welcomed the statement. Dr. Neil Stone, an infectious disease expert, responded, “Words I never thought I would hear Robert F Kennedy Jr. say. He's absolutely 100% correct, and I'm relieved to hear him say it.”

However, Kennedy’s longtime base of vaccine hesitant supporters expressed feelings of betrayal. “SELL-OUT,” one user commented. Another wrote: “This is so disappointing.. Who has compromised you?!”

The political fallout comes as Texas and 21 other U.S. states battle a severe measles outbreak that began in January. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the death of a school-aged child last Thursday, marking the second child fatality linked to measles complications in the state.

Kennedy, who once falsely linked vaccines to autism and championed alternative remedies like cod liver oil and Vitamin A for measles, has faced criticism from public health officials for spreading misinformation. Some children were hospitalized last week with Vitamin A toxicity, underscoring the risks of unproven treatments.

Despite his past affiliations with the anti vaccine movement, including his role with Children's Health Defense, Kennedy has insisted he is not “anti vaccine” and opposes mandates, not vaccines themselves. “I wouldn’t take away anybody’s vaccines,” he said in earlier statements.

The MMR vaccine, administered in two doses, prevents over 97% of measles cases and helps ensure herd immunity, which is critical for protecting infants and those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.

Kennedy’s endorsement may not be enough to repair trust with either side. Pro vaccine advocates view it as too little, too late, while many of his supporters see it as a political reversal.

As cases continue to climb and public health officials warn of additional fatalities, the shift in Kennedy’s position highlights the tension between personal freedom and community safety a defining issue in American health policy.