A multi-state measles outbreak, nearing 600 cases, is prompting concerns. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., while urging vaccination, opposes mandates. Experts express worry about underreporting, particularly in undervaccinated communities, like the Mennonite population in Texas, where the outbreak originated. Three deaths have been linked to the outbreak, all in unvaccinated individuals. Despite Kennedy's claims of a successful response, experts highlight the undercounting of cases and emphasize the need for higher vaccination rates to prevent further spread and deaths, potentially jeopardizing the US's measles elimination status.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.