Measles cases have surged to 884 across 29 states in 2025, fueled by a growing anti-vaccine sentiment echoing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s views. This increase includes outbreaks in at least six states, with Texas reporting the majority of cases. Tragically, three deaths, including two children, have been attributed to the disease—the first measles-related deaths in over a decade. The low vaccination rate among those infected (only 2 percent received the recommended MMR vaccine) underscores the severity of the situation and aligns with predictions of a potential measles resurgence.
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The Trump administration, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at HHS, has systematically dismantled crucial public health agencies, including SAMHSA, HRSA, ASPR, and ACL, resulting in the elimination of vital programs like the 988 Lifeline and Meals on Wheels. This drastic action has also led to the firing of thousands of experts and the termination of billions in funding for state and local health departments and critical research initiatives. These actions have severely hampered public health preparedness, access to healthcare, and vital medical research, jeopardizing the health and well-being of countless Americans. Despite some legal challenges, the ongoing assault on public health requires immediate Congressional intervention to prevent further damage.
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The Texas measles outbreak has surged past 600 confirmed cases, with the vast majority affecting children and teenagers. This alarming increase underscores a critical public health concern, highlighting the devastating consequences of vaccine hesitancy and the urgent need for increased vaccination rates. The rapid spread of the virus is particularly troubling given measles’s high infectivity, making it easily transmissible within communities.
Recent daily updates have consistently added to the case count, reflecting the ongoing spread of the virus. The numbers paint a grim picture, with significant increases reported over multiple days, showcasing the exponential growth characteristic of measles outbreaks. This rapid escalation necessitates immediate and decisive action to control the situation and prevent further infections.… Continue reading
Texas’ measles outbreak, originating in late January, now includes 597 confirmed cases, with 36 new cases reported. Sixty-two patients required hospitalization, and tragically, two school-aged children have died. Ten counties currently experience ongoing measles transmission, highlighting the continued spread despite claims to the contrary. Prevention relies solely on two doses of the MMR vaccine.
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The US Food and Drug Administration’s suspension of food safety quality checks due to staff cuts is a deeply alarming development. The potential consequences are severe, raising serious concerns about public health and the safety of the nation’s food supply. This action effectively leaves a gaping hole in the crucial oversight necessary to ensure food safety standards are met.
This situation is especially concerning given the already existing challenges to food security and access. The impact will extend beyond the US borders, likely rendering American-produced food unsellable in many international markets with stricter food safety regulations. This could lead to significant economic repercussions for the US agricultural sector.… Continue reading
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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The CDC rejected Milwaukee’s request for assistance in investigating widespread lead hazards in its schools due to the elimination of its lead program by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This decision leaves Milwaukee’s health department to manage the crisis independently, highlighting the challenges faced by local health authorities without federal support. The eliminated CDC team previously provided crucial expertise in environmental health emergencies, including lead poisoning investigations and responses to other toxic substance incidents. This loss of federal expertise is deeply concerning, particularly given the difficulty in recruiting specialized personnel.
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Texas reported 36 new measles cases, bringing the total to a number exceeding 100 since January, with 56 hospitalizations and two unvaccinated child deaths. The outbreak is concentrated in Gaines County, and while only 5% of cases are currently infectious, health officials stress the importance of MMR vaccination to prevent further spread. Simultaneously, San Antonio’s Metro Health will end some childhood vaccination services on June 30th due to federal grant funding cuts, exacerbating concerns during this severe measles outbreak. This reduction in vaccination services impacts the community during the worst measles outbreak in 30 years.
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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
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood