RFK Jr.’s Anti-Vax Actions in Samoan Measles Epidemic: A Disastrous Pick for Health Secretary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s involvement in the 2019 Samoan measles outbreak, which followed a vaccination pause after a tragic vaccine-related accident, has been debated. While not solely responsible for the low vaccination rates, Kennedy’s engagement with Samoan anti-vaccine activists, his promotion of their misinformation, and his meetings with Samoan government officials lend credence to claims he exacerbated the crisis. His denials of involvement are contradicted by evidence of his actions before, during, and after the epidemic. Ultimately, the outbreak stemmed from multiple factors, but Kennedy’s actions demonstrably contributed to the spread of vaccine hesitancy.
John Q. Hosedrinker