Video footage revealed Texas doctor Ben Edwards, treating children during a measles outbreak, displayed a measles rash while working in a clinic a week before Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. met and praised him. Edwards’ actions, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious disease, are deemed irresponsible by public health experts. Kennedy’s subsequent endorsement of Edwards, who utilized unproven treatments, has drawn sharp criticism and raised concerns about the Secretary’s approach to public health. This incident highlights a conflict between Kennedy’s past anti-vaccine stance and his current role as head of the HHS, particularly amidst a significant measles outbreak.
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Measles cases linked to the Texas outbreak have surged to 561, with 20 new infections confirmed in the latest update. This represents a significant increase in a relatively short period, highlighting the rapid spread of the virus and the urgent need for preventative measures. The sheer number of cases is alarming, and underscores the gravity of the situation. Many believe the actual number of cases is significantly higher than reported, potentially four times greater according to some estimates. This underreporting could be masking the true extent of the outbreak and hindering effective control efforts.
The devastating consequences of this outbreak are undeniable.… Continue reading
As of Friday, over 700 measles cases have been reported in the U.S., exceeding 2024’s total and marking a significant surge. Texas accounts for the majority of cases (541), including three deaths, two of which were unvaccinated children. Outbreaks have also been confirmed in six other states, fueled by low vaccination rates in affected communities. The spread is linked to both domestic and international transmission, underscoring the urgency of vaccination.
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During a 40-minute address to FDA staff, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. used a disability slur, promoted “deep state” conspiracy theories, and accused the agency of being controlled by the industries it regulates. His remarks, which included invoking the Milgram experiment and downplaying the severity of the measles outbreak, shocked employees, with some reportedly walking out. An HHS spokesperson defended Kennedy’s statements, claiming he was advocating for transparency and accountability within the FDA. This incident follows recent mass firings at the FDA and adds to the ongoing controversy surrounding Kennedy’s tenure.
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Measles outbreaks in Texas, particularly within the unvaccinated Mennonite community, have resulted in three deaths, including 8-year-old Daisy Hildebrand. Her father, Pete Hildebrand, despite his daughter’s death, maintains his anti-vaccine stance, claiming vaccinated relatives experienced more severe symptoms. This assertion contradicts decades of scientific evidence supporting the MMR vaccine’s safety and efficacy. The ongoing outbreak underscores the critical need for widespread vaccination, especially in close-knit communities with low vaccination rates.
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The measles outbreak in Texas continues to escalate, with the reported case count now surpassing 500. This represents a significant increase from previous updates, which showed fluctuating daily additions of new cases. One day, 59 new cases were reported, while other days saw increases in the 20s and 70s. The sheer number of new infections demonstrates the rapid spread of the virus within the affected communities.
The rising number of cases is alarming, particularly given the reported increase in hospitalizations. The number of hospitalizations is now at 57, a concerning statistic that highlights the severity of the illness for some individuals.… Continue reading
Ontario’s measles outbreak, exceeding 650 cases in 2025, primarily affects unvaccinated individuals in southwestern Ontario, prompting a New York State travel advisory urging vaccination before visiting. The highly contagious virus has led to a significant increase in cases this year, surpassing the annual total for the past decade by April. New York health officials stress the importance of MMR vaccination, noting the severity of measles, which can cause pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death, and emphasizing that two doses offer nearly 100% protection. The advisory highlights a global rise in measles cases and encourages timely vaccination before travel.
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Dallas County’s public health department has canceled over 50 vaccination clinics and laid off 21 employees due to $11.4 billion in nationwide federal funding cuts for pandemic response. These cuts, impacting millions in Dallas County’s budget, eliminate free measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines and critical staff for disease surveillance and prevention, leaving the county vulnerable despite the current outbreak being centered elsewhere in Texas. The cuts jeopardize ongoing public health initiatives beyond COVID-19 response, including measles prevention efforts. This decision comes as Texas grapples with 422 reported measles cases statewide, with outbreaks also affecting other states including Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Ohio.
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A second child has died from measles in Texas, prompting HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to visit the grieving community. The death, along with a previous fatality in February, underscores the severity of the multi-state outbreak, which has reached at least 569 cases across Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and possibly Kansas. The majority of cases are unvaccinated children and teens, highlighting the critical need for MMR vaccination. Federal and state health officials are working together to contain the outbreak and emphasize vaccination as the most effective preventative measure.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood