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Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. controversially claimed his response to a major measles outbreak in Texas is a global model, despite criticism from public health experts. Experts cite undercounting of cases, delayed CDC deployment, and Kennedy's insufficient vaccine endorsement. Three deaths and nearly 500 illnesses have resulted from the outbreak, a resurgence linked to declining vaccine trust, particularly among Republicans. Kennedy's tenure has seen HHS workforce cuts, including at the CDC, and the installation of vaccine skeptics in key roles, alongside funding cuts to local health departments.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.